World Doula Day is celebrated annually on March 22, marking the start of World Doula Week. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is using this occasion to recognize doulas—professionals who assist women during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period—and to promote its program for certifying doulas in Virginia.
What is a Doula?
Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support to individuals during childbirth and in the time following. They can also advocate for a woman’s right to make informed health decisions regarding her body and her baby. Unlike family members or friends present during birth, doulas receive formal training in birth support. While not medical professionals—they are not trained to provide medical treatment—doulas are considered a critical part of a patient’s care team.
Statistics indicate that having a doula present during childbirth is associated with several positive outcomes, including fewer C-sections and birth complications, fewer requests for pain medication like analgesics and epidurals, less time spent in the NICU, more satisfying birth experiences, and increased rates of breastfeeding.
Doula support also appears to increase fresh parents’ confidence in caring for their newborn.
What is VDH’s Doula Program?
VDH manages Virginia’s State-Doula Certification Program. A State-Certified Doula is a trained, community-based professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant women throughout pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period. A Virginia State-Certified Doula must be approved by the Virginia Certification Board (VCB).
More information about Virginia’s State-Doula Certification Program can be found online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a doula do?
Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support during childbirth and the postpartum period. They may also act as an advocate for the birthing person.
Are doulas medical professionals?
No, doulas are not medical professionals and are not trained to provide medical treatment.
What is a State-Certified Doula?
A State-Certified Doula is a trained, community-based professional who has met the requirements set by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
As doula certification programs expand, how might access to this type of support evolve for families in Virginia?
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