> are more likely to give birth spontaneously
> have lower rates of caesarean sections > have shorter labours > are less likely to request an epidural > have a reduction in the use of synthetic oxytocin to speed up labour > have a reduction in the use of pain medications > have lower rates of forceps and vacuum delivery > have babies who are less likely to be admitted to special care > have more feelings of control and competence during labour |
Research* suggests that "... all women should have continuous support during labour. Continuous support from a person who is present solely to provide support, is not a member of the woman's social network, is experienced in providing labour support, and has at least a modest amount of training, appears to be most
beneficial".
*Cochrane Library (published Feb '11) Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth - Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C, Weston