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What is a doula?

From the beginning of time, women have been cared for and nurtured as they became mothers. Experienced women supported others through labor, offering comfort, reassurance, and guidance. After birth, families, friends, and neighbors gathered around the new parents to help them navigate those tender first weeks with a newborn.

Today, birth and postpartum doulas carry this timeless tradition forward—expanding and professionalizing the role. Doulas provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support before, during, and after birth, ensuring families feel cared for, confident, and connected as they welcome their baby.

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Why hire a birth doula?

A 2017 systematic Cochrane review found that having continuous labor support makes you:

MORE likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth and a shorter labor

LESS likely to experience:

  • Cesarean delivery

  • Instrument-assisted delivery

  • A negative birth experience

  • Regional pain medication

  • Low 5-minute APGAR scores

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In addition, when continuous labor support is provided specifically by a doula, research shows:

  • Increased rates of exclusive breastfeeding

  • Decreased use of Pitocin

  • Decreased incidence and severity of postpartum depression

In March 2014, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine issued a joint statement, “Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery.” The report focused on reducing the soaring C-section rates in the United States. Among its key conclusions was:

“Published data indicate that one of the most effective tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the continuous presence of support personnel, such as a doula.”

Why hire a postpartum doula?

  • Lower risk of postpartum mood disorders
    Research shows that families with postpartum doula support experience reduced rates of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

  • Knowledgeable, non-judgmental support
    A doula provides evidence-based information and compassionate care, helping families recover more smoothly and confidently.

  • Overnight support for rest and recovery
    Having an extra set of hands at night makes all the difference—soothing the baby, supporting feedings, and giving parents the restorative sleep they need.

  • Practical household and sibling support
    From preparing light meals and tidying up, to helping older siblings adjust to a new baby, doulas ease the daily load so families can focus on bonding.

  • Improved partner satisfaction
    With postpartum doula care, partner satisfaction rates increase from 30% to 71%! Investing in support helps protect your relationship and strengthens your foundation during the vulnerable fourth trimester.