How Do Doulas Make A Difference? Birth doulas stand out in a number of ways. A doula is the only birth professional who is committed to be present with a woman continuously through the length of the labor and birthing process. The special training and wisdom that a doula offers has many measurable benefits. For the women that Peace Tree Organization seeks to support; those who have no other continuous support available to them -such as prisoners-, the benefits become even more significant. The presence of a doula for a laboring prisoner is beneficial for everyone; the woman, her baby, and the community in general. A doula benefits the mother by: - Reducing use of medication
- Reducing use of Pitocin
- Reducing chances of cesarean section
- Improving feelings of satisfaction
- Increasing bondingÂ
- lowering rates of postpartum depression
A doula benefits the baby by: - Reducing the use of medications that will affect its breathing or coordination
- Reducing rates of fetal distress
- Reducing rates of cesarean section (which carries risks for the baby as well)
- Improving bonding that results in a mother more likely to be committed to regaining custody
- Decreasing abuse rates
A doula beneifts the community by: - Reducing overall cost of the birth
- Improving rates of recidivicsmÂ
- Increasing bonding that results in a mother more likely to work to keep her baby our of government care
- Empowering women to believe in themselves which can translate to work ethic and healthier lifestylesÂ
To learn more about the many concrete, measurable, and invalubale benefits of birth doulas, see the following links:
The Use of Doulas for Inmates in Labor: Continuous Supportive Care With Positive Outcomes What is a doula? Research about the benefits of a doula Systematic Reviews of Doula research The American Academy of Family Physicians about doula care
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