The Doula Benefits
Did you know that having a doula by your side can lead to a shorter labor, fewer interventions, and a more positive birth experience? Studies show that continuous support from a doula improves birth outcomes—not by forcing decisions, but by helping parents feel more knowledgeable, confident, and supported throughout the process.
The Evidence-Based Benefits of Doula Support
Shorter Labor
Research has found that doula-supported births can be up to 25 percent shorter than those without continuous labor support. Feeling safe, informed, and emotionally supported helps the body labor more efficiently, allowing the natural hormonal process to unfold without unnecessary stress or tension.
Lower Cesarean Rate
The presence of a doula is linked to a 39 percent decrease in the likelihood of a cesarean birth. By providing comfort measures, emotional reassurance, and advocacy, doulas help parents navigate their options and avoid unnecessary interventions. This support helps keep labor progressing naturally, reducing the chances of complications that could lead to surgery.
Reduced Use of Pitocin
Many people assume that stalled labor or slow progress automatically requires Pitocin, but that is not always the case. Doulas help create a calm, low-stress birth environment, reducing the need for labor augmentation like Pitocin by 31 percent. Techniques such as movement, massage, position changes, and relaxation exercises naturally encourage labor progression without medical intervention.
Less Epidural Use
Having a doula present lowers the likelihood of requesting an epidural or pain medication by 10 to 15 percent. This does not mean clients are discouraged from choosing pain relief, but rather that they feel empowered with tools to cope with labor more comfortably. With hands-on support, breathing techniques, and movement, many parents find they can manage labor better than they expected.
Lower Need for Forceps or Vacuum Assistance
Instrumental deliveries using forceps or a vacuum are often needed when the baby is not in an optimal position or when labor has become exhausting. With a doula’s guidance on positioning, movement, and breathing techniques, the risk of needing these interventions decreases by 26 percent. Simple changes in how the birthing person moves or rests during labor can make a significant difference in how smoothly the baby moves through the birth canal.
More Than Just Physical Support
Beyond the measurable benefits, doulas provide a level of care that extends beyond statistics.
Emotional Support – Labor can be unpredictable, and emotions run high. A doula offers encouragement, reassurance, and a calming presence.
Advocacy – Doulas help clients understand their options and communicate their preferences with care providers. This does not mean speaking for them but rather empowering them to have informed discussions with their medical team.
Partner Support – Many birth partners want to be involved but are unsure how to help. A doula guides them in offering meaningful support, ensuring they feel confident in their role.
Postpartum Confidence – The support does not end after birth. Doulas help parents transition smoothly into their new roles with guidance on newborn care, breastfeeding, and recovery.
Your Birth, Your Choices, Your Support System
At Call the Doula, we believe that birth should be an empowering experience where you feel heard, supported, and confident in your decisions. Our role is to equip you with knowledge, comfort, and advocacy—helping you have the best possible experience, no matter how your birth unfolds.
If you are expecting and want to learn more about how doula support can benefit your birth, reach out today. You deserve to feel informed, prepared, and fully supported every step of the way.
