The Effect of a Supportive Companion on Perinatal Problems, Length of Labor, and Mother-Infant Interaction

Abstract

We studied the effects of a supportive lay woman ("doula") on the length of labor and on mother-infant interaction after delivery in healthy Guatemalan primigravid women. Initial assignment of mothers to the experimental (doula) or control group was random, but controls showed a higher rate (P less than 0.001) of subsequent perinatal problems (e.g. cesarean section and meconium staining). It was necessary to admit 103 mothers to the control group and 33 to the experimental group to obtain 20 in each group with uncomplicated deliveries. In the final sample, the length of time from admission to delivery was shorter in the experimental group (8.8 vs. 19.3 hours, P less than 0.001). Mothers who had a doula present during labor were awake more after delivery (P less than 0.02) and stroked (P less than 0.001), smiled at (P less than 0.009), and talked to (P less than 0.002) their babies more than the control mothers. These observations suggest that there may be major perinatal benefits of constant human support during labor.

Characteristics of a Positive Experience for Women Who Have Unmedicated Childbirth

“…Multiple studies have provided evidence of the positive influences that mothers experience when receiving labor support from a companion present during birth (Campero et al, 1998;Sosa, Kennell, Klaus, Robertson, & Urrutia, 1980;Zhang, Bernasko, Leybovich, Fahs, & Hatch, 1996). One recent study revealed that mothers who received continuous support from an experienced woman during labor and birth had fewer medical interventions and requested less pain medication (Hodnett, 2002).…”

The midwife factor in obstetric procedures and neonatal outcome

“…Emotional support decreases forceps frequencies [10,23] and involves trust, which has been shown to be an essential component of nursing practice [17] and hence we believe for midwifery practice too.…”

Snoezelen Room and Childbirth Outcome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

“…there are unpleasant consequences like insomnia, delayed in initial attachment between mother and newborn, and improper breast feeding position of mothers (28,29). Evidence shows that the prevalence of perinea trauma is lower among women who gave birth at home, because they are mentally and physically are prepared for the birth and the environment is attractive and comfortable for the mother; so they get along with the physiological process, without hurrying, which creates a sense of security as home environment can help healthy perinea (30).…”