Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula's presence at birth:

• Tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
• Reduces negative feelings about one's childbirth experience
• Reduces the need for Pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
• Reduces the mother's request for pain medication and/or epidurals

Research shows parents who receive support can:

• Feel more secure and cared for
• Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
• Have greater success with breastfeeding
• Have greater self-confidence
• Have less postpartum depression
• Have lower incidence of abuse