A doula will provide resources and information to support the pregnant individual in understanding their options to make the best decisions about their birth plan. *Evidence shows that birth outcomes – for both the birthing person and the baby – are often improved with the presence of a doula. Having support from a doula has been reported to: Shorten labor by 41 minutes on average Increase in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth by 15% Decrease in the risk of Cesarean birth by 39% Decrease the use of any medications for pain relief by 10% Decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five-minute Apgar score by 38% Decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience (in a hospital setting) by 31% *2017 Report from the Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization