II. Definitions
- Doula
- Continuous non-medical labor support
III. Efficacy
- Groups with greatest benefit
- Women who would otherwise labor alone
- Low-income patients
- Continuous Doula support improves outcomes
- Reduces labor duration
- Reduces use of Analgesics, Oxytocin and forceps
- Reduces chance of Cesarean Section
- Intermittent support does not offer same benefits
- Scott (1999) Am J Obstet Gynecol 180:1054-9 [PubMed]
- Continuous nursing does not offer same benefit as Doula
IV. Resources
- Doulas of North America (DONA)
- Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association