During pregnancy, BirthFocus doulas learn about the mother's concerns and priorities for the birth. She stays in close phone contact as the due date approaches providing reassurance and ensuring her availability for labor.

During labor, the doula supports the mother continuously. There are no shift changes. The doula offers comforting touch and massage, emotional support, and reassurance in the birth process. She provides hot and cold compresses at just the right time, effective positions for labor and birth and simple explanations of obstetrical terms and procedures. Her continuous care is provided throughout hospital shift changes.

Immediately after birth the doula offers breastfeeding assistance, information and support. She can take photos and help the family with immediate needs. The doula visits again soon after the birth to review the experience with the family, answer questions and provide extensive referrals to postpartum services.  The doula provides a written account of the birth.