1 Wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels (1 inch or lower). 2  Lift with your knees, not your back!  Use sturdy shoes with a good tread. All the weight will be on your legs, which are strong muscles, and by extension on your feet. Good shoes will help to prevent accidents.
A birth doula is a trained labor coach who assists you during labor and delivery. She provides you with continuous emotional support, as well as assistance with other non-medical aspects of your care. Doulas charge several hundred to a thousand dollars for their services, which are seldom covered by health insurance.
So whether your labor takes 20 minutes (lucky you!) or 20 hours (yikes!), a doula will be there to support you: helping you find the most comfortable position, providing a light massage for pain relief, and being your cheerleader and advocate.