Doula is a Greek word meaning “a woman who serves.” A doula refers to an individual who is specially trained to support women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. This care may include breastfeeding support, physical and emotional care during childbirth, and providing help to the mother and newborn in the first few days after birth.
One of my goals for 2006 is to attend a doula workshop and to begin the process of certification. There are several organizations that provide certification, but they are similar in what they provide:
- required reading of professional papers and a variety of books
- certification workshop that provides skills training and information
- obtaining experience assisting women during at least 3 births
- membership to a professional organiztion
The two largest doula certification organizations I am aware of are DONA and ALACE. Their websites are full of information about the certification process and upcoming workshops. Also, I was able to meet a doula during my trip to the Midwifery Today conference in September. This doula and aspiring midwife serves women in the Northern California area, and she is full of experience and passion for the natural birth process!
I am planning to attend a workshop in February, so I will continue to write updates about this process! I am so excited to learn real skills for supporting women during their childbirth. Another plus: I get to read all of my favorite books! I’ve already read many of the books on the required reading lists!
Post a comment if you have questions about becoming a doula, or if you know of a great doula in your area!
6 Responses to “Becoming a Doula”
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January 6th, 2006 at 01:54 AM Let me know if I can help you at all as you go through the process... Hh
January 6th, 2006 at 01:55 AM P.S. I'm the Western Pacific US Regional US Director for DONA International. I see you are in SoCal, so you're in "my" area. :)
January 9th, 2006 at 03:18 PM Hello... I thought this petition might be relevant to you. "Help Change Midwifery Legislation!" Please take a moment to read about this important issue, and join me in signing the petition. It takes just 30 seconds, but can truly make a difference. We are trying to reach 5,000 signatures - please sign here: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/458796522 Once you have signed, you can help even more by asking your friends and family to sign as well. Thank you! Suzanne Rock Stierle
May 12th, 2006 at 05:18 AM I have been in lobor and delivery with 5 girls, and I really enjoy it. I am going to be going in with another girl in Nov. this one is a little differant, I have went to her drs. appt. and first ultra sound. I also have my own salon. I have 3 nurses who work in labor and delivery, they have told me to become a doula. What do I have to do? If you could help me out please. Thank you Liz
May 15th, 2006 at 11:59 AM Dear Liz, I haven't yet taken a doula certification course, but they seem to be offered in many states. Just click on the links above in my article for DONA and ALACE, and look on their websites for upcoming workshops and certification. How exciting that you already have experience! Blessings to you as you become a doula!
July 8th, 2006 at 11:44 AM What is the usual salary for a doula?