SCOPE OF PRACTICE

As a CAPPA-trained Labor Doula, my role is to accompany women in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying birth experience. It is my utmost goal to support you fully in facilitating the kind of birth you have envisioned. I am independently employed by and working for you—not your caregiver or birth center/hospital.

• I will provide unbiased emotional, physical and informational support during pregnancy, labor, birth and the immediate postpartum period.

• While I’m providing continuous support to you and your family, I will also seek to foster a cooperative, respectful and positive relationship with the birth team.

• I provide current, evidence-based information and will continue to maintain my knowledge and skills through continuous education.

• I will assist in the preparation of birth preferences to facilitate regular communication with the birth team.

• I will encourage and assist in informed decision making.

• I will not only provide support to you, but also your partner/support person.

• I will listen to you.

LIMITATION OF SERVICES

Doulas are nonclinical support persons, whose work provides direct and proven medical benefits and risk reductions for mothers, babies and families.

• A CAPPA labor doula is not a clinician, and therefore does not diagnose medical conditions, perform clinical procedures or interpret medical/clinical diagnoses. I am there to provide only physical, emotional and informational support.

•  I do not make decisions for you. I will help you gather the information you need to make an educated and informed decision. I will also remind you if there is a departure from your birth plan.

•  I do not speak on your behalf. I will help discuss concerns and work together to work through options, so you are confident to ask questions and bring concerns to birthing staff.