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Episode 31: Doula Certification
Doula certification is a topic that comes up frequently among those considering doula work as a profession. Does it matter? Who should I certify with? Which organization is the best? All of these are common questions we see. In this episode, we tackle the topic of doula certification. As doula trainers, it’s no secret that to us, certification matters. In this episode, we dig deep into our beliefs and opinions surrounding certification. Angela shares her journey through three different certification organizations before finding the perfect fit. Eva shares her thoughts surrounding some of the assumptions surrounding certification by consumers. Come join us as we discuss certification in the doula…
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Episode 30: Male Doulas
In this episode, we tackle the topic of male doulas. We are so excited to talk to Kelly Carrington, Canada’s first male doula. Kelly joins us to discuss the life of being a husband, father, massage therapist, and labor doula. This isn’t your typical doula interview. We decided to take a different approach and explore some deeper topics such as: How does your wife feel about the physical intimacy often present between a doula and a client in your work as a doula? The discrimination present in the doula community against male doulas. That being a male doesn’t matter, intentions matter. The biases that exist against male doulas that do…
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Episode 29: Informed Consent & Decisions
Informed consent. This phrase is one of the top three most common phrases in the doula dictionary. However, the actual process of informed consent is between a patient and their care provider. This involves a discussion of the risks, benefits & alternatives to any proposed intervention or treatment. In addition, it also includes the right to refuse any recommended treatment or intervention. Yet somewhere along the way, doulas have been taught that they are responsible for clients giving informed consent. “I support whatever my client decides, as long as they are making an informed decision.” Is it the doula’s role to determine if the client is making an informed decision?…
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Episode 28: Supporting Cesarean Birth
April is Cesarean Awareness Month! With all that is going on in the world today, it’s important to continue to hone our skills as we adapt our support to this ever-evolving landscape. In this episode, we discuss supporting cesarean births with our guest Christi Banks! Christi is the co-owner of Doulas of Bellingham and has developed a niche in supporting cesarean birth. Scheduled, unscheduled, emergent, all are types of cesareans that our clients may face. Being prepared to support clients through all types of cesarean birth is an essential skill. As a result, we can help our clients best navigate a cesarean birth with confidence. We also take a…
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Special Episode: Doulas & COVID19 – Providing Support
Hello Doulas! Right now we are all facing a time of uncertainty. As hospitals close their doors to visitors and doulas, both doulas and clients alike are feeling worried, uncertain and anxious. We see the anxiety doulas are facing as you begin to navigate this rapidly changing landscape. We see your questions and we hear your concerns. It feels really big and scary right now so we wanted to sit down and address many of your concerns. You’re not alone when it comes to the very valid concerns that doulas are facing as we are being asked to socially isolate. How can doulas complete contracts for labor support that are…
