


| A labor doula is a woman who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant women and their families. A labor doula will help a couple through an amazing transformation from couple to parent. A Doula offers physical support through position changes, massage, aromatherapy, and/or comfort measures; emotional support through a continuous presence throughout labor and birth; and informational support through educating the couple on their choices in childbirth and acting as an advocate during a woman's labor and birth. |
| A labor doula will meet with the woman and her family prenatally to discuss the woman's birth desires. She will help the soon-to-be parents develop a birth plan and understand all the choices that encompass pregnancy, childbirth, and the early postpartum period. 11 independent studies have proven the following benefits to having a doula present at your birth: |
| 50% reduction in the cesarean rate 25% shorter labor 60% reduction in epidural requests 40% reduction in oxytocin use 30% reduction in analgesia use 40% reduction in forceps delivery |
