Before your birth: A doula can help you prepare for childbirth, talk with you about healthy pregnancy, and help you practice coping techniques to manage discomfort you may experience during labor, including deep breathing, relaxation and therapeutic touch. You can decide how often you would like to meet with your doula to prepare for labor and get to know each other. Your doula is also available by phone and/or email and can connect you with local resources if needed.

During your birthing time: Your doula typically will join you once you are in active labor. They will stay with you throughout the duration of your labor and birth, and will provide continuous physical and emotional support along with encouragement to both you and your partner/family, if present. A doula will also help you put into practice those coping techniques and comfort measures you may have practiced during your prenatal meetings, as well as provide new suggestions as your labor progresses.

After your birth: A doula usually stays for a short time after the birth. Your doula may also visit you at home for a postpartum meeting, after you are settled in with your new baby, to answer any questions about things like feeding, newborn care, and to talk about your birth story. Post visits can also be helpful to learn about emotions and changes in your body after baby arrives. Postpartum Depression is real and you can experience a range of emotions, having someone to talk to is helpful.