How to Become a Postpartum Doula

A postpartum doula, hired by the couple, comes into the house after the baby is born. A postpartum doula helps the new family adjust to the baby by cooking, doing light chores, running errands and helping with breastfeeding and newborn care. If you're interested in this field, you may be wondering how to become a postpartum doula.

Instructions

1. Get certified. Many organizations such as DONA International (Formally Doulas of North America) and Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA) offer certification programs for postpartum doulas. Certification generally requires classroom hours, research, a test, breastfeeding knowledge and positive reviews from clients.

2. Obtain a CPR certification. Not only will you know what to do if there's an emergency, but this is a great way to promote yourself.

3. Learn everything you can about babies and breastfeeding. Attend local La Leche League meetings so you can get to know the local breastfeeding community and learn about breastfeeding. Contact hospitals to see if can observe baby care and breastfeeding classes. Subscribe to parenting magazines, check out newborn care books from your local library and stay up to date on studies involving newborns.

4. Take a counseling class; your local college probably offers one. A big part of a postpartum doula's job is to listen to new parent's fears. Learn through a counseling class how to listen to people and to draw out their concerns and questions.

5. Find clients. Since postpartum doulas are relatively new, you may have difficulty finding clients in the beginning. Set up a website, draw up brochures and business cards you can hand out. Contact any local labor or postpartum doulas in the area so you can network-perhaps your city has a local doula group that accepts postpartum doulas. Contact midwives, OB/GYNs and childbirth educators in your area to let them know you're looking for clients.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient if it takes you some time to find clients. It take time to establish yourself as a postpartum doula.

Resources

• For information about certification, go to DONA.
• For information about certification, go to CAPPA.