D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 29, r. 29-11299
For the purposes of this Chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed:
Birthing parent - the individual giving birth.
Cesarean section- a surgical procedure in which a fetus is delivered through an incision in the birthing parent's abdomen and uterus.
Doula - a nonmedical professional who assists a pregnant individual before, during or after childbirth, as well as the pregnant individual's partner and/or family, by providing information, physical assistance, and emotional support.
Doula services -physical, emotional, and informational support to the birthing parent throughout the perinatal and postpartum periods, provided by a certified doula.
Labor and delivery - the period during which the fetus, membranes, umbilical cord, and placenta are expelled from the uterus through vaginal birth or through surgical delivery by a Cesarean section.
Perinatal care - care occurring or existing during the period before birth, labor and delivery, and up to six (6) weeks following the end of a pregnancy. The perinatal period refers to the regular medical and nursing care recommended for an individual during pregnancy. Perinatal care is a type of preventative care with the goal of providing regular check-ups that allow doctors and other medical professionals to treat and prevent potential health problems throughout the course of a pregnancy.
Postpartum period - the period beginning immediately after childbirth.
Pregnant individual - an individual during pregnancy and the doula services postpartum period
Preterm - prior to the thirty-seventh (37th) week of gestation.
D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 29, r. 29-11299