For the next five weeks we will use the 100percentdoula blog to explore the question “How Can I Work as a Doula?” This is a common question that I often hear asked by new doulas, those interested in becoming a doula and existing doulas that… read more
As it turns out, there are a few more lessons from my 10 years of birth doula work that I would love to share. If you missed the first set of 5 lessons, check them out here. 1) Avoid negative doula relationships I hear about doula… read more
I can hardly believe that I am finishing my 10th year of doula work. The years go by fast, but the recovery from a marathon birth is painstakingly slow. I have learned a lot over these years and have put together 5 lessons. 1) The… read more
It’s not a requirement to be a master at data management in order to be a good doula. But, having a good system to store and retrieve your data will help you run your business and serve your clients better. I started out with a… read more
Mistake 1: Turn it into a mini prenatal Some clients are so hungry for information that they come to the interview with a copious amount of questions. They might ask you everything from your opinion about their care provider to what your thoughts are on… read more
If you are a birth doula, then it is very likely that you have heard about Spinning Babies. Most doulas have even visited the website or directed our clients to check out a page or two. Spinning Babies is all about fetal positioning. Founder, Gail… read more
The purpose of a doula contract is to protect both the doula providing the service and the clients receiving the service. The contract should explain what is expected of both parties and what should be agreed upon and signed by everyone involved. Traditionally contracts were printed out… read more
How are you being paid for your services? Doulas have been compensated in many ways ranging from barter to insurance payments. The most common way to be paid for years has been cash and check, but payment options are growing. In this blog post I’ll… read more
Certifying for the First Time In March of 2005 I began my journey to doula work by attending a DONA birth doula training in Atlanta with the amazing Rae Davies. I was serious about this new career and began the road to certification immediately. I… read more
Life on call is not easy. You always have to have your phone. You can’t have that second glass of wine. Every plan, every schedule, comes with a mental “but I’m on call” or “if my client goes into labor.” Real talk, I’m entering my… read more
“Winning” as a doula may mean different things to different people. It could mean getting hired, feeling professional or otherwise meeting business goals. At the start of my 12+ year doula career, I often found myself struggling to make progress towards “winning”. Fortunately, with time… read more