There are several types of Doulas, each with their own scope of work.
BIRTH DOULA– Educational and Emotional support for the Laboring Person and their family
POSTPARTUM DOULA– Cook, clean, help with lactation, care for baby, care for family, errands, shopping, an experienced support for the new family
FULL SPECTRUM DOULA – Activist, anti-racist, will work with pregnancy loss, incarcerated individuals, abortion, as well as birth and postpartum.
SCOPE OF PRACTICE:
Doula cannot perform medical procedures (Blood pressure, vaginal exams, etc)
Doula cannot prescribe (medication, herbs, homeopathics)
Doulas Do not speak for a client. They can advise, educate the parents, but are not there to argue with medical personnel.
Always choose a Doula who is CERTIFIED by a reputable organization.
QUESTIONS TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE DOULA:
Are you certified? By What Organization?
How many births have you attended?
Have you previously worked in my birthing place?
Have you previously worked with my medical provider?
Do you carry insurance?
Any other services you provide?
What is your fee? What does that include?
Do you provide a contract?
Do you have backup in case you are unable to attend my birth?
How many births do you take a month?
Are you familiar with pelvic biomechanics?
HOW TO FIND A DOULA
- Certifying body website usually has a list of doulas listed by state/ city(ICEA.org, DONA.org, CAPPA, ToLabor, SISTER SONG)
- Doulamatch.net
- Facebook Doula groups
- Recommendations from friends
DOES INSURANCE COVER A DOULA?
You will need to check with your insurance company to see if they cover these services. Tri-Care (Military Insurance) has begun covering these services if your Doula is certified with certain organizations. Many HSA’s will cover these services.
Medicaid in certain states have started covering Doula Services.