Large Study Looks At Benefits Of Doula Care On Postpartum Outcomes

InnovationHealthcareLarge Study Looks At Benefits Of Doula Care On Postpartum OutcomesByNina Shapiro,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Dr. Nina Shapiro is a physician writer who dispels health myths.Follow AuthorApr 27, 2026, 03:31pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Multiple factors contribute to maternal/infant health outcomes, including presence of a birth doula. gettyDoula care around pregnancy and childbirth was once considered to be something accessible only to those with substantial financial means. Hiring a private doula around pregnancy and delivery can cost thousands of dollars. But according to the National Health Law Program, 26 states as well as the District of Columbia now cover doula care via Medicaid, with an additional 7 states in the process of implementing this coverage. While doula care has generally thought to simply provide basic emotional support, a study published in the April 2026 issue of JAMA Network Open assessed multiple objective measures of the benefits of perinatal doula care. Birth doulas are trained professionals who work with pregnant individuals before, during, and after delivery, assisting in providing both physical and emotional support throughout labor and delivery, and often in the early newborn period. While not medically trained, there are various doula training certifications either through private or hospital-based entities. Most private insurers do not cover the cost, but Medicaid coverage continues to expand, from 10 states in 2023 to 26 currently and likely soon to 33. A study published in Cureus in 2023 reported specific benefits to presence of a doula during the labor and delivery process, including reduced incidence of cesarean section, which is often considered to serve as a marker for improved birth outcomes. In addition, the report found increased use of breastfeeding and better a...