The TL;DR is that when a doula is present, there is a higher number of positive birth outcomes.

There are numerous studies that have documented the benefits of having a doula present during labor.

With doula support, women are less likely to have a low birth weight baby, less likely to experience a birth complication involving themselves or their baby, and significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding.

Communication and encouragement from a doula throughout the pregnancy may increase the mother’s ability to positively impact her own pregnancy outcomes.

Women also report having a more positive childbirth experience.

• American Academy of Pediatrics: Benefits of a Doula Present at the Birth of a Child

• National Institute of Health: Impact of Doulas on Healthy Birth Outcomes

• Cochrane Study: Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth