* Recognizes childbirth as a key life experience.
* Helps assist in researching and writing an individualized
birth
plan.
* Gives you undivided attention; her role is to be at your side
throughout labor.
* Understands the emotional needs of a woman in labor.
* Provides
or suggests comfort measures during labor.
* Offers techniques regarding relaxation, massage
and position changes.
* Remains objective and calm during labor.
* Can
help you understand how your labor is progressing.
* Offers encouragement and support during long or difficult
labors.
* Gives suggestions to help you cope and help your labor
progress.
* Enhances communication between you and the birth team.
* Communicates
with your birth companion in understanding the
birth process.
* Helps your family get off to a great start as new parents after
the birth.
* Helps with initial breastfeeding and support.
* Offers postpartum follow-ups
for the family.
* Doulas do NO clinical skills.
