Doula Training – How much and what kind of training does a doula need?

(Excerpted from “How to Become a Doula” by Sheri Menelli)

Doula Training: How much training do doulas have or need?

Because doulas are not medical, they don’t catch babies or give medical advice. They don’t replace a doctor, midwife, or nurse. They are really in a class of their own. Whereas Midwives and Obstetricians are primarily concerned with the physical health and well being of the mother and baby, doulas are devoted to the mental, emotional, and spiritual well being of the new family as well as being sensitive to the birthing woman’s specific needs, comfort, desires, and environment. Because of this, a doula does not usually have nor do they need a medical background.

Doula training workshops vary from as short as a weekend to a few months, but there are other requirements and steps including bookwork, required reading and exams in some cases. They learn how to make birth more comfortable, how to reduce the chance of a c-section and how to give great emotional support to the mom and family, as well as effective communication and creating a comfortable birth atmosphere.

There are other doula training that teaches how to run a doula business. These classes teach you how to get clients, referrals and keep the balance between work and family. One of the most popular programs is the home study course, “Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Successful Birthing Business”. More information on business classes are available at The Birthing Business Institute.

Many doulas continue to take courses and workshops to continue their education. More information on advanced doula trainings and workshops are available at http://doulaschools.wordpress.com.

Doula Licenses

There are no licenses for doulas. There is only possible certifications. Some doula training programs certify doulas and others do not.