What's Happening?
A research team has conducted a scoping review to assess the role of doulas across the pregnancy care continuum and their impact on maternal and child health. The review involved a systematic search across six
databases, resulting in 897 articles, with 23 selected for detailed analysis. The studies included in the review were diverse, covering various countries and focusing on different aspects of doula support, such as mode of delivery, labor induction, pain management, hospital stays, and child outcomes. The findings revealed mixed results regarding doulas' impact on delivery methods, with some studies indicating a decrease in cesarean births and others showing an increase. Additionally, doulas were found to positively influence labor induction, pain management, and breastfeeding initiation, while their impact on hospital stays and child morbidity and mortality varied. The review also highlighted doulas' role in supporting maternal mental health and well-being, emphasizing their contribution to reducing postpartum depression and enhancing maternal confidence.
Why It's Important?
The scoping review underscores the significance of doulas in improving maternal and child health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations such as Medicaid recipients, Black and Latina women, and women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. By providing emotional, physical, and informational support, doulas can empower women during pregnancy and childbirth, potentially leading to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. The findings suggest that doulas may play a crucial role in promoting non-instrumental vaginal deliveries, reducing reliance on medical interventions, and supporting breastfeeding initiation. This research highlights the need for healthcare systems to consider integrating doula services as part of comprehensive maternal care, which could benefit both mothers and infants by improving health outcomes and enhancing the overall childbirth experience.
What's Next?
The review suggests further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of doula support on maternal and child health outcomes, particularly in diverse and underserved populations. Healthcare policymakers and providers may consider expanding access to doula services, especially in communities with high rates of infant mortality and maternal health disparities. Additionally, training programs for doulas could be developed to ensure culturally and linguistically appropriate care, enhancing their effectiveness in supporting diverse populations. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, integrating doula services into standard maternal care practices could become a focus for improving health equity and outcomes.
Beyond the Headlines
The review highlights ethical and cultural dimensions of doula support, emphasizing the importance of culturally concordant care for migrant and minority women. Doulas can help bridge gaps in healthcare access and literacy, providing personalized support that respects cultural practices and preferences. This approach not only improves health outcomes but also fosters trust and empowerment among pregnant women, contributing to positive societal shifts in maternal care. The findings suggest that doulas could play a pivotal role in addressing systemic healthcare disparities, promoting equity and inclusivity in maternal health services.
