Beyond holding hands: the modern role of the professional doula.

This article illustrates the five main aspects of the doula's role: providing specific labor support skills; offering guidance and encouragement; assisting mothers to cover gaps in their care; building a team relationship; and encouraging communication between patient, nursing staff, and medical caregivers. The roles of both nurses and doulas are discussed, including the complementary nature of their roles, and also strategies for preventing conflict between doulas and nurses. A modern perspective on birth plans and the doula movement are included.