September 2025

Each year Doula UK members complete an annual return detailing their doula work from the previous year.  We have collated this data and are delighted to share the results with you, which clearly show an increase in the demand for doula birth and postnatal support; and show the positive outcomes and benefits of having a doula during pregnancy, birth and after the birth of a baby.

Over the past year a total of 2,420 births (up from 1,460 in 2020, 1,835 in 2021) were supported by a doula and 1,981 families were supported postnatally, in fact, postnatal doulas clocked up an amazing 88,683 hours of support.

Doulas impacted breastfeeding rates too with 97% of birth clients breastfeeding their baby. And an incredible 83% of postnatal clients were breastfeeding at final visit.

Doulas reported that 65% of births were spontaneous vaginal births (without ventouse, forceps, or caesarean birth) whilst the National average is currently around 46%.