Why Hire a DAI Doula

In Ireland, the doula profession remains unregulated—which means that, in theory, anyone could wake up tomorrow and decide to call themselves a doula. As a result, it can be hard for families to know where to find a doula and who to trust when seeking support through pregnancy, birth, or the postpartum period, a challenge exacerbated by the ever-increasing presence of so-called experts offering all sorts of medical advice on social media.

That’s exactly why the Doula Association of Ireland (DAI) exists: to increase your access to reliable information and support through raising the standards within our industry. We do that through supporting, promoting, and working to further develop the doula profession in Ireland. Families feel confident and supported, doulas can thrive in their calling. Everyone wins.

As Chairperson, and someone who’s served on the committee in various roles over the past six years, I’ve seen first-hand the immense value this community brings—not only to families, but to doulas themselves. Our mission has always been rooted in ethical and professional standards and whole-hearted support. When you choose a DAI doula, you’re choosing someone who is:

• Professionally trained
• Garda vetted
• Insured
• Committed to upholding our shared Code of Ethics
• Actively engaged in continuous professional development

In a non-regulated field, these commitments mean everything. They represent a collective dedication to quality, safety, and ongoing learning.

But being a member of the DAI is about more than credentials. It’s about connection, mentorship, and mutual growth. Our association offers doulas a strong sense of community—where questions are welcomed, wisdom is shared, and support is only a quick message away. That happens formally, through CPD opportunities, surveys, and the creation of original resources and guides—but also informally, through the daily conversations and sharing of information and knowledge that happen between members.

As doulas, we often work alone—but that doesn’t mean we have to feel isolated. The DAI offers a professional home, a space to grow, and a network of colleagues who can add to each other personally and professionally.

For clients, this means the reassurance of hiring someone who is not only experienced and well-trained, but someone who is an active member of their professional community, invested in best practices and ongoing learning.

For doulas, it means being part of something bigger—something that’s shaping the future of non-medical support in Ireland.

Whether you’re seeking support or looking to offer it, the Doula Association of Ireland is here for you.

Find your perfect match at doula.ie/find-a-doula

Written by By Anita Petry

Chairperson of the Doula Association of Ireland

chair@doula.ie