Recognizes childbirth as a key life experience that the parent will remember all their life.

Understands and trusts the process of birth and the emotional needs of a person in labor.

Is experienced and trained in providing labor support.

Provides emotional support and physical comfort measures to birthing people and families from early labor until after childbirth.

Acts as a liaison between the laboring couple and the medical staff to facilitate communication and help the parents get the information they need to make informed decisions.

Supports the informed choices of the clients.

Inspires confidence in a person’s ability to give birth in their own best way.

Perceives the role as nurturing and protecting the parent’s memory of their birth experience.

Offers resources and information.

The doula is not there for medical reasons, other than to provide support.

Make decisions for you. The doula will help get the information necessary for parents to make an informed decision and the one that is right for them.

Replace the partner during labor. The doula supports and encourages the partner throughout the process.

At least two prenatal visits to discuss comfort measures, answer any questions and alleviate your concerns.

Assisting you in the design of your birth plan for an easier, more fluid birthing experience.

Helping you to have the most satisfying birth possible as you define it.

Infant feeding preparation, information and support.

Training in visualization and relaxation techniques.

Suggestions for a more comfortable pregnancy and birth.

Providing educational materials and referrals.

Telephone support and advice throughout pregnancy and immediate postpartum.

Going on call two weeks prior to the due date.

Counseling you in asking the right questions so that you can make informed decisions about the care of you and your baby.

Massage and other alternative pain relief measures during labor.

Continuous, uninterrupted support throughout labor and birth and immediate postpartum.

Labor and birth positioning suggestions for comfort and labor progress.

Providing an environment such that the partner is able to focus on the birth experience and can direct their attention to loving and supporting the laboring parent.

Assisting the partner and family members as needed.

Help and support with feedings.

Newborn care after birth.

Providing information and resources for further support and success.

Running errands.

Light meal preparation.

Help with laundry and home care.

Help with older children and pets.

Assist in creating a comforting, safe, nourishing space to experience your fourth trimester.