The evidence is in. This is an updated article from a research based informational site. "Of all the ways birth outcomes could be improved, continuous labor support seems like one of the most important and basic needs for birthing people." "For most of these outcomes (designated with asterisks*), the best results occurred when a birthing person had continuous labor support from a doula– someone who was NOT a staff member at the hospital and who was NOT part of their social network. When continuous labor support was provided by a doula, women experienced a: 31% decrease in the use of Pitocin* 28% decrease in the risk of Cesarean* 12% increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth* 9% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief 14% decrease in the risk of newborns being admitted to a special care nursery 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience*" Some insurance companies are now reimbursing some or all of the cost of hiring one, so check it out:) https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/