Research of 11 controlled studies of over 1000 women by Marshall Klaus, MD and John Kennell, MD, indicated that the presence of a Doula at birth makes big difference resulting in the following statistics:-

• 50% decrease in the need for a cesarean delivery
• 25% decrease in length of labour for first time mothers
• 60% decrease in requests for an epidural
• 40% decrease in the use of artificial oxytocin use
• 30% decrease in the use of forceps
• general decrease in the use of pain relief medications (narcotics)

For more information regarding this study please refer to, Mothering the Mother, How a Doula can help you have a shorter easier and healthier birth. Klaus, Kennel, 1993.

Additional advantages for having a Doula:

A Doula can provide:

• Professional continuity of care and assistance at any time, day or night in your home.
  
  
• Access to resources and information so couples can make informed choices and decisions with regard to the pregnancy, where they want to birth their baby, the labour and birth.
  
  
• Referrals to Ante Natal Fitness Classes, Educational Birth Preparation Classes, Lactation Classes, Pregnancy Yoga Classes, Pregnancy Massage Services.
  
  
• Assistance in preparing for the birth. Creating a ‘birth plan’ or ‘positive outline plan of action’. Explanation of medical procedures and definition of medical terms and words.
  
  
• Reassurance and support for the father to be and assistance for him to become more involved, educated and supportive.
  
  
• Postpartum support and care with breastfeeding, or referral to a lactation consultant. General support and care and reassurance around what to do at home with bathing, sleep patterns, baby crying, nappy changing etc.

Natural Pain relief techniques that a Doula suggests during Labour:

There are many natural pain relief methods that can assist a woman in labor that Doulas recommend when they are supporting a woman in labour. Below are a list of some of the techniques that woman find helpful to cope with the contractions:

• The use of the bath or birthing tub to labour in
• The use of the shower
• The use of massage
• Keeping the body active and moving around
• Rescue remedy
• Scented oils to be massaged on your skin
• Music to calm your mind and help you focus
• Sitting on a birthing ball and rocking your body
• Hanging from a bar, rope or tree
• Yoga
• Visualization, creating an Analogy that represents your body
• Acupressure, counter pressure on lower back
• Guidance with breathing, vocal sound
• Verbal feedback, positive reassurance throughout the labour