Unless you take on a large number of clients, most days will not be spent in the labor and delivery room. Until your expectant mother is officially in labor, she will need you periodically for support and guidance. For several months leading up to childbirth, you’ll meet with her, by phone or in person, to answer any questions she might have and assist her in outlining her birthing plan. While a doula does not practice medicine, she is knowledgeable about the various medicines and issues that could arise during labor and delivery. Since most deliveries are not scheduled, doulas are on-call 24/7 once her client reaches the third trimester. Once labor starts, she’s there to offer whatever support the mother needs, helping with breathing and relaxation techniques, supporting the mother in various laboring positions, and providing massage therapy. They help with partner involvement and advocate for the mother when things don’t go as planned. When the baby arrives, the doula is there to help the new mother breastfeed and bond with her newborn. Some doulas, antepartum doulas, specialize in high-risk pregnancies, providing support and education throughout the pregnancy. Postpartum doulas specialize in afterbirth. They educate the new mother and assist them in household duties as their client adjusts to this new life. As the owner of a doula service, your free time away from clients will be spent on administrative work and your marketing strategy.