Which statement about continuous doula support is false?

The statement regarding higher Apgar scores being false in the context of continuous doula support can be understood through the lens of the relationship between doula support and immediate newborn outcomes. While continuous doula support is associated with various positive childbirth outcomes—such as fewer interventions, increased feelings of support, and potentially lower pain medication requests—Apgar scores, which assess a newborn's immediate post-delivery health based on criteria like heart rate, respiratory effort, and muscle tone, are influenced by a myriad of factors beyond the support provided during labor.

Research on the effects of continuous doula support often emphasizes its impact on the birthing experience, labor progression, and maternal satisfaction, but it does not consistently demonstrate a direct correlation with improved Apgar scores. Factors such as the infant's gestational age, the health of the mother, and the labor environment may play more substantial roles in determining Apgar scores than the presence of a doula.

The other statements concerning lower rates of vacuum-assisted deliveries, increased spontaneous vaginal births, and reduced requests for pain medication are supported by evidence that highlights the benefits of continuous doula support during labor and delivery, reinforcing the role of doulas in fostering a more natural birth experience.