What is a Doula?

We explore the different types of doula, acronyms, and finding and interviewing a doula

Families guide to Doulas

What is a Birth doula?

A doula is a woman experienced in childbirth and knowledgeable of hospital procedures. Doulas provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support during labor—from massage to aromatherapy, to continuous reassurance and coping techniques for the mother and her family.

A birth doula generally meets with you before the birth to develop a trusting relationship and will be present for your labor. They may provide childbirth education, help you develop a birth plan, and set a number of postpartum visits. Most birth doulas work for a flat fee with a sliding scale.

What is a Postpartum doula?

Being a new parent can be a challenging transition.  It may start to feel like you're tipping over the edge of what you can handle.  You don't need to do this alone!

Postpartum Doulas are women who are trained to support new families through the transition of having a new baby.  They are here to help you make a plan and answer your questions!  

The views and actions of Pacific Birth Collective do not represent the individuals and businesses listed below and vice versa. The professionals in this directory are listed here as a resource and represent a wide variety of backgrounds, training, and cultural practices.

Acronym Definitions

• ALACE—Association of Labor Assistance and Childbirth Educators, Cambridge MA 

• CD—Certified Doula

• CBE—Certified Breastfeeding Educator

• CCHT—Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist

• CLE—Certified Lactation Educator

• CNA—Certified Nurses Aid  

• DONA—Doulas of North America

• LCCE—Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator

• PCD—Certified Postpartum Doula

Finding and Interviewing Doulas

We recommend interviewing several doulas to see how you connect. Some questions to considering asking are:

• What is your birth philosophy?

• What training have you had?

• How many births have you attended?

• Have you worked with my doctor/midwife before?

• What kinds of suggestions do you typically make at a birth?

• What do you provide as a part of your services?

• What do you see your role as during the birth?

• How do you help include my partner in the birth?

• Can you provide references?

• How much are your services?