Ithaca Doulas What is a Doula? The Benefits of Doula Care Doula Links
The Ithaca Doulas
Benefits of a Doula
Most people don't even know what a doula is, let alone know about all the benefits they can provide to both mother and child. Also referred to as "labor assistants", doulas have been shown, in published studies, to affect many positive outcomes. Please pass this list on to someone who could use the information, including your doctor.

Physical..
Fewer requests for epidurals (60%), narcotics (30%) [1-4,7,8]
Reduced use of pitocin [1,2,4,6,7]
Reduced duration of labor (25%) [1-6]
Fewer forceps deliveries [1,2,4,5]
Reduced use of vacuum extraction [4]
Reduced cesarean section rates (50%) [1,7]
Neonate hospitalization and rate of complications reduced [2,3]
Reduced chances of maternal fever and infection [2]
Reduced maternal bleeding following birth [5]
Increased chance of spontaneous vaginal birth [6]

Psychological..
Mothers report more positive reviews of their birth experience [4,8,13]
Reduced levels of anxiety [4]
Mothers have higher regard and increased sensitivity towards babies [4,10]
Mothers feel more secure and have more confidence [14]
Reduced incidence of post-partum depression [4,10]
Click here for references

Quotes from two of the studies:

"..doula support is an essential component of childbirth. A thorough reorganization of current birth practices is in order to ensure that every woman has access to continuous emotional and physical support during labor." [3]
"The Beneficial effects of labor support underscore the need for a review of current obstetric practices." [2]
Why take unnecessary risks? 

Hire a doula!!!