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Are Doulas Dangerous - We already have the answer to this question!
What does the evidence say?
A Cochrane review (A professional body that reviews all current evidence and research about a topic, assesses the quality of the evidence and creates a summary) concluded:
'Continuous support in labour may improve a number of outcomes for both mother and baby, and no adverse outcomes have been identified. Continuous support from a person who is present solely to provide support, is not a member of the woman's own network, is experienced in providing labour support, and has at least a modest amount of training (such as a doula), appears beneficial. Compared with having no companion during labour, support from a chosen family member or friend appears to increase women's satisfaction with their experience. Future research should explore how continuous support can be best provided in different contexts.'
Other studies show that:
Other studies have shown that having a doula as a member of the birth team decreases the overall cesarean rate by 50%, the length of labor by 25%, the use of oxytocin by 40%, and requests for an epidural by 60%
But Doulas are unregulated?
This is true anyone can call themselves a Doula BUT
In the UK, to get onto many of the Doula registries you have to complete an accredited course, ensuring you have had a basic level of training that aligns with the professional standard of that registry.
Some registries require new Doulas to be mentored through a certain number of births and provide continuing opportunities and support for the Doulas on their system.
Do Virtual doulas have the same benefits?
Yes!
A study done on a virtual doula network in the US concluded that:
Those who met with a doula two times or more reduced the odds of C-section by nearly 20% for all members. For those who met with a doula two or more times and have had a prior C-section, the impact was even greater: more than 60% of these members saw reduced odds of C-section.Â
Members reported greater birth experience outcomes if they met with a doula two or more times, compared to those who met a doula once or no times.Â
This was defined as:
Feeling like they had support in deciding on a delivery preference
Learning medically accurate information
Feeling like they received a high level of emotional support
Better managing their mental health
Are Doulas and Virtual Doulas only for the middle and upper classes?
This was another statement made by the article, which listed a number of Doulas and Birthkeepers rates (didnt mention the OB's wage though of course!)
While its true that Doula costs can reach upwards of a thousand pounds, many Doulas work with charities to provide their services at a reduced rate or free of charge!
Some offer payment plans to spread the cost over months or even years!
Virtual Doula offerings are ofen more affordable and therefore accessible, take a look at my virtual offering here:
Do Doulas and Virtual Doulas only support Home birth or Freebirth?
No! Whilst some Doulas indeed set their own boundaries about the type of birth they support, this simply means you need to find the right Doula for you!
A good Doula would never try to change your mind about the type of birth you should have. If you wish they should provide you with information and evidence to help you make your decision but the decision is yours alone!
I support all types of birth, I have had two hospital/birth center births myself, but I have supported families in home birth, and elective cesarean and I am open to freebirth as well.
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