"Thank you so much Cathy for coming over yesterday and teaching me [about the stages of childbirth].  I feel better about the birthing process.  .  I feel [baby] Tuli and I have really bonded with you.  I really trust you.  Thank you so much for helping me.  You are such a sweet person and you have great karma!" 
-Darcie  

Women who use doulas...

1. Rate childbirth as less difficult and painful than those not supported by a labor doula.
(Ahang J. et al (1996) Obstetrics and Gynecology. 88 (4) part 2: 739-744).

2.  Have fewer c-sections, forceps usage, and episiotomies.
(Klaus et al. Mothering the Mother. Reading:  Addison-Wesley, 1993).