WHAT IS A BIRTH DOULA?
The word "doula" comes from ancient Greek meaning woman who serves, and is now used to refer to someone who is compassionate and knowledgeable about childbirth. Presently doulas provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the birthing person before, during, and just after childbirth; or provide emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
The Washingtonian covers local DC doulas!
HOW DOES A DOULA IMPACT THE BIRTH EXPERIENCE?
Professional Labor Assistance Studies have shown that the presence and support of a professional labor assistant (doula) can:
Shorten Labor
Reduce the overall cesarean rate by 28%
Decrease the need for synthetic oxytocin (known as pitocin) by 31%
Decrease the need for pain medication by 9%
Limit the requests of epidurals
Decrease the need for forceps and vacuum
Mothers who have experienced professional labor assistance report they feel more positive about labor, are more successful at breastfeeding, and even report feeling more positive about their partner months after the blessed event!
WHY CHOOSE DONA INTERNATIONAL FOR TRAINING?
DONA International is the largest doula association in the world, with over 7000 birth and postpartum doula members in over 50 countries. Since 1994, DONA International has certified over 8,500 doulas. DONA provides quality training and a comprehensive certification pathway that sets the bar for doula education. It indicates to families that a doula has achieved a high level of training and professionalism. Once certified, DONA will advertise your doula services for free on their main website.
WHY HIRE A DONA INTERNATIONAL DOULA?
DONA International Birth Doulas mother the mother. DONA International doulas are educated and experienced in childbirth and the postpartum period. They are prepared to provide physical, emotional, and informational support to women and their partners during labor and birth, as well as to families in the weeks following childbirth. They offer a loving touch, positioning, and comfort measures that make childbearing women and their families feel nurtured and cared for.
HOW LONG IS THE TRAINING?
The new expanded workshop will last 3.5 days, from 9:00am - 6:30pm each day. It includes the Introduction to Childbirth Education, Birth Doula Workshop, and Breastfeeding for Doulas that are needed for you to pursue DONA International Certification!! Participants are expected to attend the ENTIRE 3.5 day training. Click here to read about our workshop description
HOW DO DOULAS PRACTICE?
Doulas are privately hired directly by families, are hospital or clinic employees, and are volunteers in community organizations. Doulas find their own clients to work with.