There really are two types of doulas, those who are trained to assist at births and those who assist after the baby is born. The second type is known as postpartum doulas. They come in after a baby is born to assist the family with breastfeeding and caring for the baby.
A birth doula is an important person at the birthing process for persons who want a natural or as natural a birth as is possible. The most commonly known type of doulas are birth doulas. They assist the expectant parents before the baby’s birth and assist the mother when she is giving birth. These types provide information on pregnancy and labor to the parents-to-be. Birthing doulas offer comfort to the woman when she is in labor. They generally use alternative soothing techniques such as aromatherapy where allowed, massages and meditation music to help make the woman more relaxed during labor.
Postpartum doulas, while not as commonly known as their counterpart also play an important role. In fact, some doulas double as both birth and postpartum doulas. Apart from helping a family adjust to becoming parents (whether for the first time or not), they sometimes help with light housework.
Training & Certification
Many doulas start out as mothers who want to help others give birth. In fact, a doula should have a love of helping and appreciation of the birthing process. Apart from apprenticing with another doula, there are training institutions available. Many of the agencies involved in certifying doulas also offer training.
In the USA certification while not a requirement can be obtained from:
· DONA International. This organization was previously known as Doulas of America
· The International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA)
· Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA)
· Association of Labor Assistants & Childbirth Educators (ALACE)
Some of these organizations require that doulas become a member. Membership fees vary from organization to organization, but the information can be found online or by calling. The average cost for a one year membership is $50.00.
Cost & Length of Courses
Cost for training ranges from $430 to $700 for birth doulas, however, call the organization you want to train with for the necessary information. In most cases, the duration of courses depends on the schedule of the person being trained. Courses can be completed in as little as 2-3 months, but must be completed with three years. Some training institutions give students a maximum of two years in which to complete their training.
Once training is completed, many doulas are allowed to attend to women in labor, but generally as apprentices. Agencies have different requirements regarding the number of births a trainee doula has to attend before receiving certification. After gaining experience, which varies depending on the competency of the doula in training and the requirement of the training organization, it’s time to step out into the real world.
Being a doula can be a rewarding career for those persons who like to do things naturally. It has been proven that labor can be made easier by the attention of a doula who offers comfort and encouragement. If you feel like this is a career path you wish to take, start the process today.
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