A doula recognizes that childbirth is a life changing experience that a woman will remember the rest of her life. She is trained in the emotional, physical and psychological processes of birth and her role is to look out for the emotional well-being of the mother. A birth doula does not take the place of a doctor or midwife and does not perform cervical checks or monitor blood pressure. She does provide constant support and encouragment from the beginning of labor until after baby is born. She is trained to provide: explanations of medical procedures, advice and support during pregnancy, suggestions for position changes during labor, and support to partners and family members. She also recognizes that parents cannot make informed choices without knowing alternatives. She provides education and assistance with making a birth plan. A doula cannot and will not make decisions for a couple, or tell a physician what to do. She will however encourage and empower them to communicate their desires and make their own informed decisions. A doula is experienced in providing pain relief options and alternatives to unnecessary interventions. Most importantly, a doula is there to assure, encourage, cheer and empower mothers to have the best birth possible.