Emotional support (encouragement, reassurance, continuous presence)
Informational support (education, informed choices, alternatives)
Physical support (comfort measures, positions, breathing, relaxation, massage)
Advocacy/Facilitator (promoting collaboration among the entire birth team)
Individual scope of practice will vary on the laboring woman's needs and desires. The goal is to have a woman-centered birth experience that supports the safest and most comfortable choices for the mother and baby. Many options are available for length of care prenatally, during the labor process, and for postpartum care.
