How to Become a Doula

A Doula is "a woman experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother before, during and just after childbirth." (Klaus, Kennell and Klaus, Mothering the Mother)

Studies have shown that the benefits of continuous labor support can reduce the rate of cesarean by 50%! This same study showed on average, 25% shorter labors, 60% reduction in epidural requests, 30% reduction in analgesic use, and 40% reduction in forceps delivery. Mothers who had doulas reported less anxiety and depression, more confidence with their babies, more satisfaction with their relationships with their partners, and were more likely to breastfeed.

Doulas are usually women who love birth. They love helping moms and families have an easier time during pregnancy and birth and they make a dramatic difference. Many doulas are moms who got into the profession out of their love of birth and the flexibility that it offered. Other doulas are pregnancy massage therapists, prenatal yoga instructors, childbirth educators and midwifery students who want to supplement their income with a job that helps them work with their existing clients.

The first step a prospective doula needs to take is deciding about her training options. The Birthing Business Institute offers a comprehensive and in-depth look at different training organizations as well as options to becoming a doula.