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Doula work is a largely unregulated field, which has allowed it to expand and diversify in many different ways.  Because of this, credentialing and certification are not required, and many doulas wonder why there is even a need.  So the question arises, why get certified as a doula?

Certification requires a doula to go through some sort of training organization that then certifies that they have attained or met certain standards set by that certification agency.  Certification does not mean that a doula is better than others, nor does it imply that they are more skilled.  But it does provide some benefits that should be considered.

Professional recognition

Certification can serve as a way to validate a doula’s knowledge to herself and others of her profession.  It enhances professionalism in these ways:
1) Tells your clients that your skills and knowledge are up to date.
2) Raises birth professionals confidence in you as a part of the team.
3) Shows you are a valuable member of the birth team and are willing to continue learning.
4) When you are working to make change in your community, it helps show you are a thought leader or an expert in the field.
5) Shows initiative.

Market yourself

Certification may possibly put you in a different market and may be something unique to add. (Keep in mind you may be marketing to both women and medical professionals)

1) Keeps you marketable in a growing market.
2) Proves your skills are relevant and of value.
3) Validates your skills.

Life long learner

Certification provides an avenue to continuing your own education as a doula.

1) May provide you with a new skills set.
2) An inexpensive way to proof that you’re keeping your knowledge base and skills current and up to date.
3) Sets a standard for yourself.

Certification validates a doula’s knowledge and skills, provides a marketable value, and enhances the learning of any doula.  The doula profession is growing in acknowledged value and numbers.  This may become something that is increasingly valued among both birth professionals and women.

Register Now!

Follow Rachel Leavitt:

Rachel has worked as a register nurse (BSN from University of Utah) since 2004 with a work history in Labor and Delivery, NICU and Postpartum Care. She is also the founder of New Beginnings Doula Training which she organized in 2011. When she's not busy being a mother and grandmother, she can be found reading research papers related to some aspect of childbirth.

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