Many women are drawn to supporting the birth process and become professional doulas. Most women who choose to become doulas have had children themselves but not always. A doula supports laboring women by attending to their emotional and physical comfort needs and assists in 'smoothing' the labor process. They do not have clincal duties or responsibilities but use massage, positioning suggestions and may help her client to research the type of birth she wants.

A doula may begin supporting a laboring woman at her home, in hospital or at a birth center and remains with her until after the birth. In addition to emotional support, doulas work as advocates of their client's wishes and may assist in communicating with medical staff to obtain information for the client to make informed decisions regarding medical procedures. Women do not require prior training to become doulas.