FAQ

Generally, a doula is a professional available to support the expecting mother during the perinatal period (pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum), relating information and empowerment to women during this very transformative moment. Hence, their work involves providing individual accompaniment and assisting women in conscientization, as well as preparation throughout pregnancy, birth physiology, and postpartum, always based on scientific evidence.

Firstly, a doula is a non-medical support professional whose role is to offer pregnant women emotional, physical and informational support. Generally, while they may educate expecting parents on non-pharmacological pain management, childbirth physiology and such, they do not perform clinical tasks, such as offering medical advice or examine clients.

A midwife, on the other hand, is a medical professional trained in pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care. Therefore, they are allowed to provide clinical care as a healthcare provider and administer medication.

No. A doula plays a vital role during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period; they are absolutely not limited to the moment of delivery. Thus, you can and must have one even during a Caesarean section.

The benefits of having a doula are particularly numerous, with many studies proving their importance during prenatal, delivery, and postpartum stages. Generally, some documented benefits, often related to vaginal delivery, include:

• 25% reduction in the duration of labor
• 40% reduction in the use of oxytocin
• 30% reduction in the use of epidurals
• 60% reduction in requests for epidural analgesia
• 50% reduction in the rate of cesarean sections
• 40% reduction in the use of forceps
• better satisfaction with the delivery experience
• lower incidence of postpartum depression (PPD)

Doulas are classified according to the stage of life or event they support. The most common types are:

Birth Doula: Supports the pregnant woman during labor and birth.

Postpartum Doula: Assists in the mother’s recovery and baby care after birth.

Antepartum Doula: Provides support during high-risk pregnancies or prolonged bed rest.

Loss (Grief) Doula: Supports families in cases of miscarriage or neonatal loss.

Full-Spectrum Doula: Assists with all reproductive experiences (childbirth, loss, fertility, and abortion).

End-of-Life Doula: Provides emotional and physical support to terminally ill individuals and their families.

Adoption/Fertility Doula: Assists in the emotional process of those trying to conceive or adopt.

No. Although traditionally seen as a female role, we understand  that today anyone can be a doula regardless of their gender or personal experience.  Accordingly, In US Doula Training, we welcome anyone who’s determined to become a qualified doula and offer pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum support.

Yes! We offer Continuing Education and advanced training modules for experienced doulas looking to expand their skills. Whether you want to specialize in bereavement support, lactation, or the business side of doula work, our advanced curriculum is designed to keep you at the forefront of the profession.

View specialization courses

To better understand how I can support you on this journey or answer specific questions, the first step is to schedule an initial conversation.

Online Scheduling: You can choose the best time for us to talk by filling out the form at the link below:

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Yes! Our training program at Doula Brasil is designed based on international standards of care. While we are a Brazilian-born institution with a strong presence across South America, our curriculum aligns with the core competencies required by major international organizations.

Currently, we provide a Professional Certification that proves you have completed the necessary hours of theory and practice. In the United States, doula work is a non-regulated profession, meaning you can practice with our certification , we provide all the documentation and syllabus details needed to help you seek reciprocity or independent accreditation.

 Our training for the U.S. market is delivered exclusively via live videoconferencing. This format ensures you receive high-quality, real-time instruction and support from our educators, allowing for dynamic interaction and practical learning from the comfort of your home.