Numerous medical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth has a positive affect on women, babies and families.

A recent report in the United States (Mothering the Mother by Kennel, Klaus and Kennel) showed that caesarean births could be cut by half, labour duration could be reduced by 25 per cent and the odds of a forceps delivery reduced by 40 per cent if more women have the support of a doula during labour.

According to a 1993 study, these are some of the benefits of having a doula at your birth:
* 25% reduction in the length of labour
* 30% reduction in requests for pain relief
* 60% reduction in epidurals
* 50% fewer caesarean sections
* 40% reduction in instrumental deliveries
* Fathers and mothers feel more satisfied with the birth
* Increased success in breastfeeding

To find out more please email: mail@sheffieldbirthdoula.com


Photo © Michelle Barnes