During the intensive two-day program, students discuss the emotions of, and psychological processes associated with, labor and the role of the doula prenatally, during labor and birth, and at the postpartum follow-up.  The workshop emphasizes the importance of appropriate, culturally-sensitive support.  Participants also learn how to enable women and their partners to cope with complications in pregnancy, labor and the early postpartum period.  The doula's scope of practice and ethical standards are described.  The workshop does not include training in clinical skills, since those are outside the scope of practice of the doula.

This workshop is designed to help participants take the first step in becoming expert labor support providers.  It utilizes texts and supplementary literature, videos and role play to build theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

For certification purposes, attendance at the entire workshop is required.

This workshop has been approved as one step toward certification by

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Desired Background of Participants

 

The desire to provide caring support to women during childbirth.  The ability to remain calm during stressful situations and protect patient privacy and confidentiality.  Participants are encouraged to prepare by attending a complete series of childbirth preparation classes that are 12 hours or more in length (taught by the best instructor she can find), & touring a hospital.

 

Instructors assume that participants already know:

Basic anatomy of the reproductive system;

physiology of pregnancy, birth,

postpartum and breastfeeding; definitions of medical terms regarding labor; common

procedures and tests used during normal birth, their risks and benefits; pain

medications, their administration and effects; the cesarean procedure; normal newborn

appearance and procedures; basic relaxation

techniques, breathing patterns,  and the

benefits of breastfeeding.

 

You can also prepare by beginning your required reading!

Ask for strength and I will lend not only my hand, by my heart.

Doula Training