Two studies published in the Cochrane Review (Hodnett, et al., 2003 2 2007) observing a total of over 25,000 births found that women receiving continuous intrapartum support were more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth, experienced shorter births, and were generally more satisfied with their birth experience.

The studies also found that continuous intrapartum support was more effective when provided by someone other than hospital staff.

Doula support may also help women feel less pain during the birth proscess.