Statistically, birthing women who are supported by an experienced birth attendant (often now referred to as a ‘doula’) have shorter labours, use less pain-relief medication and have fewer forceps, vacuum or caesarean deliveries.
Research suggests that such continuous support from a woman who is present solely to provide support and is not a member of the birthing woman’s social network, is most beneficial.
I have been honoured to attend the births of over one thousand babies, and while I no longer attend births as a support person, I have trained many women through my birth attendant course.
The following resources have details of doulas working in Australia at present: