Family & Consumer Sciences
“She, Me, and Her” Maternal Health Program
Letter of Understanding of Services and Limitations
Central State University Extension’s “She, Me, and Her” maternal health program is a doula program designed to empower pregnant women with expert support.
What is a doula?
A doula assists a pregnant person (the client) to have a satisfying birth experience. Central State University Extension Program’s doulas are educated and certified for this role. Doulas draw on this knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort, and information that clients often need during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum. Doulas provide reassurance and perspective to the client and their support person(s), make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, positioning, and other techniques for comfort. Doulas work only at the client’s request and are not employees of the medical staff or the hospital. Doulas are not medical professionals providing non-medical support. Central State University doulas offer 4 virtual or in-person meetings with the client to develop a personal birth plan and nutrition plan.
What doulas do not do:
Doulas do not perform clinical tasks such as checking blood pressure, monitoring fetal heart tones, conducting vaginal exams, or administering medications. Their role is to provide physical comfort, emotional support, and advocacy. Doulas do not make decisions for the client but assist in obtaining information necessary for the client’s informed decision-making. They may remind the client of deviations from the Birth Plan. Doulas do not communicate with clinical staff on behalf of the client. They may discuss concerns and suggest options with the client, but the client or the client’s support person is responsible for communication with clinical staff. Doulas are not liable for medical decisions made by the client or for medical outcomes.
By signing this letter of understanding, you acknowledge that you understand the scope and limitations of the services provided by the Central State University doulas.
