Why have a doula?

We know that having a Doula present can help reduce the time spent in labour, reduce the birthing person’s anxiety and support the birth partner, there’s a lower rate of medical interventions and unplanned caesarean sections/abdominal birth’s with Doula’s present, and Doula’s can support the parent-baby bonding experience post birth.

A 2017 Cochrane review (Bohren et al) showed that continuous support from a Doula provided birthing people during childbirth with:

• 39% decrease in the risk of Caesarean birth
• 15% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth
• 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief
• Shorter labours by 41 minutes on average
• 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

But more than that, having a doula is a very personal choice. Doulas aren't for everyone! There may be heightened anxiety, wanting support for you and your partner (or maybe you don't have another birth partner), there may have been previous birth or life experiences which is drawing you towards having more support, or it might just be that you feel you want that calming and reassuring person at your birth, just for you.