DONA International has been a widely known leader in evidence-based doula training, certification, and continuing education for over 25 years. I made one of the best decisions I’ve ever made when I joined the ranks of over 13,000 DONA certified doulas worldwide in 2024. People who work with me or another DONA certified doula can trust they’ve hired someone who has completed high-quality and in-depth training in childbirth and labor support. 

 

Training Requirements

 

DONA International certified doulas receive hours of detailed classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience. When I selected my certifying organization I did not select it based on ease or speed of the requirements. I chose DONA certification to practice amongst some of the best and most notable doulas in the world. My membership to the world’s largest, longest standing, and most respected doula organization in the world means a great deal to me.

 

My birth doula training included a DONA-approved birth doula workshop, a reading list, instruction specific to lactation and newborn feeding, a childbirth class, hands-on support for multiple clients, parent evaluation and self-reflection, and creating a resource list specific to my Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan community. 

 

DONA International maintains a recertification process that requires doulas to recertify every three years. This allows doulas to stay knowledgeable about an ever-changing field, as well as ensures their practical skills and education remains proficient. This process includes obtaining a minimum of 15 contact hours of continuing education, as well as maintaining a DONA International membership. 

 

Support & Professionalism

 

DONA International supports pregnant, birthing and postpartum people as well as their right to make decisions about their own bodies and babies without judgement. DONA International certified doulas are trained not to make decisions for their clients or speak for them. As a DONA International certified doula, I work hard to provide my clients with the information they need in order to make their own informed choices. 

 

Each DONA certified doula must sign and adhere to the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Families and healthcare workers alike can rest assured that when in company with a DONA certified doula, they will receive the highest standard of professionalism.

 

Regulation & Scope

 

Doulas are not medical professionals. They do not perform clinical tasks, nor do they treat or diagnose in any modality. Legislators have recently shown heightened interest in regulating our work. At present, states still vary widely in systems for Medicaid reimbursement and language around titles and certification.

 

In most areas, anyone can call themselves a doula and offer support services to the public. While there are many uncertified doulas with abundant experience and valuable skill, buyers beware of those who claim to be doulas and have neither, nor any formal training or education in childbirth or postpartum. 

 

When you choose to work with a DONA International certified doula, you can be certain of the quality of the services they offer. As a DONA certified birth doula, I am committed to helping Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan families achieve a safe and satisfying birth experience.