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Programs that offer the services of doulas, women experienced in childbirth who are specially trained to provide continuous physical, emotional and informational support for pregnant women before, during and just after labor and childbirth. The doula helps in the development of a birth plan; provides an objective view of the progress of labor; helps the woman make adjustments if unexpected demands or complications arise; guides her in breathing techniques, positioning, massage and use of the bath, shower, birth ball, hot and cold packs and other comfort measures; communicates with her birth partner; and makes one or more postpartum visits to the family's home following birth to offer guidance and support during the early weeks of parenting. "Doula" is a Greek word for "women helping women".