What's The Point of a Doula?

Why Doulas Should Be Essential in the Childbirth Experience

“Having a baby is like getting a tattoo on your face. You better be committed.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

Childbirth is one of the biggest moments in life, and while midwives, doctors, and nurses are critical to the process, a lot of women say that they felt alone throughout the birthing process. That’s where doulas come in. A doula is someone trained to support you before, during, and after labor, offering education on all things related to childbirth, but also being a constant support to the mom and family. The growing body of research behind the benefits of having a doula is undeniable—so let’s dive into why doulas should be seen as an essential part of the birth experience.

1. Lower Risk of C-Section

One of the most significant reasons to have a doula with you during labor is that they can help lower the risk of needing a C-section. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that having a doula present during labor reduced the chances of a C-section by 39%. C-sections are major surgeries and, while sometimes necessary, they come with risks, longer recovery times, and more complications. In some cases, a doctor may suggest a C-section as inevitable when it may be wholly unnecessary. A doula can assess those situations and implement many different natural strategies to avoid unnecessary C-sections.

2. Faster Labors

No one wants labor to drag on forever, and doulas can help shorten the process. According to The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, women with doulas experienced labors that were, on average, 25% shorter. For many people, long labors are exhausting and can lead to further interventions for mamas who may not be interested in any. The extra support from a doula can make things more manageable, both physically and mentally.

3. Less Need for Pain Medications

Many people want to avoid strong pain medications during labor, and doulas can play a huge role in making that possible. Doulas are trained in non-medical pain relief techniques, like massage, breathing exercises, and helping you find the most comfortable positions. A 2013 study in The Journal of Perinatal Education found that women with continuous support from a doula were 28% less likely to need pain medication. Having someone there to guide you through natural pain relief can help you feel more in control and reduce anxiety.

4. Better Outcomes for Baby and Mom

Doulas don’t just help moms—they can also improve outcomes for the baby. A 2011 study by The Cochrane Collaboration showed that having a doula was linked to lower rates of low Apgar scores (a quick test of a newborn’s health) and increased breastfeeding success. The supportive, calm environment a doula creates can positively impact both the mom’s and baby’s well-being during and after birth.

Another study published in The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that doula-supported births had fewer complications, like the baby needing resuscitation or intensive care. So, it’s not just about the labor—it’s about setting up a healthier start for the baby too.

5. Emotional Support and Less Postpartum Stress

Childbirth is an emotional rollercoaster, and having a doula can really help with the mental side of things. According to a 2017 study in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, women who had continuous support from a doula were less likely to experience postpartum depression and anxiety. Birth is a major life event, and having someone by your side who knows what you’re going through and can offer reassurance makes a huge difference in your mental health.

A doula also helps advocate for your birth plan, making sure your wishes are communicated to your medical team. This sense of having someone in your corner can leave you feeling empowered and supported.

6. Support for Partners Too

It’s not just the birthing person who benefits from a doula. Partners can feel more involved and less stressed when a doula is there. A study in Birth: Issues in Perinatal Care showed that 74% of partners felt more confident and involved in the birth process when a doula was present. Doulas can guide partners on how to best support the mama, making the entire experience feel more collaborative and less overwhelming for everyone involved.

Conclusion: Doulas Are Essential

Given all the benefits, it’s clear that doulas should be an essential part of the childbirth experience. From lowering the risk of C-sections to improving emotional well-being and helping with pain management, the positive impact of doulas is backed by research. As more people recognize the value of having a doula by their side during labor, it’s becoming clearer that they play a vital role in creating a more empowering and positive birth experience.

Whether you’re giving birth at home, in a hospital, or in a birth center, having a doula there can help make the process smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. With so much evidence supporting the difference they make, it’s time to consider doulas as an essential part of any birth plan.

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