Doula care is a powerful, evidence-based intervention that improves maternal and infant outcomes across nearly every measurable domain of perinatal health. As a volunteer doula, your presence, advocacy, and care contribute to a growing body of research confirming that relationship-based, culturally attuned support makes a tangible difference in the lives of birthing people and their families, particularly those most at risk of poor outcomes.
Research shows that access to doula care is associated with:
- 52.9% lower odds of cesarean birth among Medicaid recipients (Falconi et al., 2022)
- 57.5% lower odds of postpartum depression or anxiety (Falconi et al., 2022)
- 22% lower odds of preterm birth and a significant reduction in low birth weight (Kozhimannil et al., 2016)
- Reduced NICU admissions for newborns, especially when doulas are involved early and continuously through labor and delivery (Thomas et al., 2017)
- Higher rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation, particularly among Black and low-income clients (Gruber et al., 2013; Kozhimannil et al., 2016)
In one large retrospective cohort study, Medicaid-funded births supported by community-based doulas had significantly lower rates of cesarean delivery (20.4% vs. 34.2%) and preterm birth (4.7% vs. 6.3%) compared to similar births without doula support (Kozhimannil et al., 2016). These outcomes not only represent improved health and safety for birthing people, they also reduce healthcare costs and prevent preventable NICU stays and postpartum complications.
Importantly, doulas are particularly impactful in addressing systemic inequities. Black women, who face disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and mistreatment during childbirth, report more respectful care, improved communication with providers, and greater satisfaction when supported by doulas (Marshall et al., 2024; Mallick et al., 2022). Doula care mitigates the negative effects of social determinants of health by increasing trust, autonomy, and access to culturally congruent support.
As a volunteer doula in the Mary’s Hands Network, you are part of this public health solution. Your work has ripple effects, reducing trauma, strengthening families, and contributing to generational wellness in communities too often left behind by traditional maternity care systems.
