What does a doula do during the birth process?

I will be available by phone and text 24/7 from the time you send in the deposit until you go into labour. When labour begins, I will normally plan to meet you at the hospital or birth center, or, for a planned home birth, when the midwife arrives. Under some circumstances, I may come to your home to support you in early labour. Once you are in active labour, I remain with you continuously. If labour is prolonged such that I must rest, I will call a backup doula to maintain continuous support. At all times during your labour, I will follow your lead in helping you achieve the birth experience you are hoping for.