FAQs
Is a Doula the same as a Midwife?
No.
A midwife is a medical care professional that can support you with birth at home or in the hospital.
Doulas are not medical professionals. They don't deliver babies or provide medical care.
What does a Doula do ?
Doulas provide educational, emotional and physical support to you and your family. They are professionalized community members with a wealth of resources and tools to support you through every step of your journey. We focus on you and your needs. Depending on the support you need the doulas offerings may shift, for example someone seeking birth support with need different care than someone seeking postpartum support or abortion support. A doula’s job is to meet the person where they are at and hold space for you to receive the care you deserve.
How do I become a Doula ?
Ask yourself what is calling you to this work. Doula work is spirit work and it not for everyone. To become a doula you must first make the commitment to life long learning, and then look into organizations that provide training and see if their values align with yours. There are many doula programs to choose from that slightly vary in offerings, pick the one that works best for you. Doula care is an unregulated profession so you do not need to be certified to do this work but it is highly recommended to get some form of formal training. Read more about how to become a doula here.
Do I need a doula ?
Do you feel like you need care and support? Then, yes you need a doula ! Everyone deserves a doula. Doula’s are for everybody. A doula will be there to provide judgment free support based on your needs, and wants ! Having someone in your corner that you know is there just to hold space and witness without bringing any of their ideas or motives can be really helpful when you’re navigating different challenges and bridge that gap of support that most health care professionals can’t.
Where do I find a Doula?
The best way to find a doula is through word-of-mouth referrals. Start by asking your health care provide as well as family and friends for recommendations. You should interview a few doulas to find the right fit for you. Some offer free consultations and some charge a fee, be sure to ask about this when reaching out!
How much does a Doula cost?
Doula care is unfortunately, not covered by OHIP. Some health insurance companies will offer support. Call your provider and ask for their policies on labor support, childbirth education, naturopathy and lactation support. Doula care fees run from $500-$2,500 depending on the area you live, experience of the doula and services being offered. Be sure to ask about payment plans !
What if I can’t afford a Doula, can I still get one?
There are ways to connect with a doula if you can’t afford the full fee. There are a few organizations and independent doulas that offer Pay-What-You-Can and even free services to make doula care accessible for all.
Check out Ocama Collective, one of our sibling organizations serving cost supported full circle care to QT/BIPOC communities in the GTA .