The author hires a doula to support her through two pregnancies and births. The doula, Jan, provides emotional support and physical comfort during labor, helping the author remain calm and informed. During the first birth, Jan's guidance helps the author progress quickly to an hour-long delivery of a healthy baby girl. The doula stays with the author for hours after each birth to assist with breastfeeding. The author credits her doula with making both of her birth experiences very positive without medical intervention beyond a midwife.