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A doula (professional labor assistant) provides physical and emotional support to you and your partner during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.

For instance, a doula might offer:

Often, however, a doula's most important role is to provide continuous support during labor and delivery. Although research is limited, some studies have shown that continuous support from doulas during childbirth might be associated with:

A doula might add another opinion to the mix when decisions need to be made about labor and delivery. However, a doula doesn't provide medical advice as a midwife or obstetric doctor would do or replace the role of your health care team. Also, fees and insurance coverage vary.

If you're interested in hiring a doula, ask your health care provider, childbirth instructor, family or friends for recommendations. You might also contact your local hospital for a referral.

When interviewing a potential doula, ask about his or her training, how many births he or she has attended, his or her philosophy about childbirth, what services he or she provides, and the cost. Also, discuss your preferences and concerns about pregnancy, labor and delivery.