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Doula → ancient Greek, meaning "a woman who serves"
What they provide
- information
- physical and emotional support
- assists with breathing, positioning and relaxation
- advocacy for women and their partners
- critical support and assistance during labor and birth, making the process easier for the midwife and mother
- may increase likelihood of vaginal birth (rather than cesarean delivery)
- may decrease the need for pain medication during labor
- may improve the perception of the birthing experience
What they don't provide or have
- medical advice
- clinical duties
Work
- may be hired by the client
- may work for a clinic or hospital
- may be a volunteer
How to become a doula
- certification
- doula training
Certification
- available from doula training programs and childbirth education organizations
- DONA International
- Birth Acts International
- though not required, certification can instil confidence in your clients and open up job opportunities
Doula training
- must attend childbirth education, breastfeeding and birth doula classes
- must attend a specified number of births
- learn about cultural diversity, ethics and business practices
Average length of doula study
- 7 to 12 hours of childbirth education
- 16 hours of birth doula training
- attend two to five births
Average doula school tuition
- $300 and $500 total
- some additional fees and costs
Doula earnings
- generally run between $250 and $1000
Resources
apr 15 2021 ∞
apr 29 2021 +
apr 29 2021 +