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Standards of Practice for Postpartum Doulas
DONA International's Standards of Practice define a doula’s role
As the premier association of doulas in the world, DONA International’s Standards of Practice help doulas worldwide to play a valuable and appropriate role during birth and the postpartum weeks.
I. SCOPE
A. Services Rendered
The postpartum doula cares for the mother and her family in their home in the first few weeks following the birth. The doula provides non-medical support and companionship, assists with newborn care and sibling adjustment, meal preparation and household organization. The doula offers evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from childbirth and other issues related to the postpartum period, and can make referrals if necessary.
B. Limits to Practice
DONA International Standards and Certification apply to emotional, physical and educational support only. The DONA International certified doula does not perform clinical or medical tasks such as examining the mother or baby, or taking temperatures, blood pressure checks, or any other type of postpartum clinical care.
C. Referrals
For client needs beyond the scope of the doula’s training, referrals are made to appropriate resources.
II. COMMITMENT TO CLIENT
When the doula agrees to work with a particular client, the obligation is to do so reliably, to the best of the doula's ability, for the term of the agreement. Should any doula feel a need to discontinue service to an established client, it is the doula's responsibility to notify the client in writing and arrange for a replacement, if the client so desires. This may be accomplished by:
- Introducing the client to another doula colleague.
- Suggesting that another member of DONA International or other doula may be more appropriate for the situation.
- Contacting a DONA International Regional Representative or local doula organization for names of other doulas in the area.
- Following up with client or doula colleague to make sure the client's needs are being accommodated.
III. TRAINING & EXPERIENCE
A. Training
Doulas who are certified by DONA International will have completed all the requirements as set forth in the DONA International Requirements for Certification for Postpartum Doulas.
B. Experience
Doulas certified by DONA will have the experience as set forth in the DONA International Requirements for Postpartum Certification. This includes infant care experience, breastfeeding education, attendance of a DONA International-approved training, applicable reading, a strong knowledge of local and national resources for the postpartum period, and evaluations from both new mothers and their supporting partners.
C. Maintenance of Certification
DONA International-certified postpartum doulas will maintain certification as outlined in the DONA International postpartum doula recertification packet. Recertification must be completed every three years.
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