A randomized controlled trial of continuous labor support for middle-class couples: effect on cesarean delivery rates

ABSTRACT: Background: Previous randomized controlled studies in several different settings demonstrated the positive effects of continuous labor support by an experienced woman (doula) for low-income women laboring without the support of family members. The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the perinatal effects of doula support for nulliparous middle-income women accompanied by a male partner during labor and delivery.Methods: Nulliparous women in the third trimester of an uncomplicated pregnancy were enrolled at childbirth education classes i