What is a Doula?
A doula is a professional, non-medical companion trained in the needs of the family. They provide clients with continuous support during pregnancy, labour and birth, and the postpartum period.
Doulas may also offer support through other significant life experiences such as miscarriage, termination, debilitating illness, or end of life.
Doulas will not
Professionally trained doulas take their scope of practice very seriously and fully understand the limitations of their services.
DAI members also abide by a common Code of Ethics which states some of their responsibilities, expected professional conduct, and shared ethos.
Many doulas have taken additional trainings in related areas and are able to provide other services. Those may be included in birth and/or postpartum service packages they offer; however, keep in mind those services are not being provided under the Doula role.
Perform clinical tasks.
Diagnose medical conditions.
Provide medical care or advice to parent and/or baby.
Make decisions for or speak to medical personnel on behalf of clients.
Offer advice or their opinion. They provide access to information, so that clients can make their own confident, informed decisions.
Have any agenda regarding their clients’ birth or parenting choices, acknowledging that this is a personal experience and they are facilitators, not directors.
Take control over baby care or provide baby-sitting services.