Postpartum Doulas are the non-medical professionals who are hired by the parents after the birth of a child. Postpartum Doulas focus mainly in baby care and imparts training to the family members to adjust with the newborn one. They are trained to give families evidence based information and support the mother on infant feeding, physical as well as emotional recovery after childbirth. The other duties include infant soothing and developing skills in new parents. Generally postpartum doulas’ duties continue for six weeks after the birth of a child. Their work may also include cooking, baby care assistance, light house works, infant bathing, infant laundry, help the elder child to corporate with the new experience, etc. They advise the new mother on health and wellness issues.

Qualifying Exam

The professionals with relevant experience in the baby care are hired as Postpartum Doula by most of the families. To become Postpartum Doula, one needs to be certified. But certification is not necessary in many countries. Numerous organizations such as DONA International offer certified training in this non-medical profession. Formal or continuing education in the field of nursing, social work or psychology may also be helpful for one to become Postpartum Doula.

Who is eligible to apply?

Those who have successfully finished their higher secondary education or equivalent and pursued pass in the concerned examinations with biology of any recognized board can apply for the bachelor’s degree courses. They can choose nursing or social work or psychology as major in this level. After obtaining this degree they can apply for the certified training for Postpartum Doula. This will help them to know more about the baby care, importance of breastfeeding, information on family based evidences, training that is to be offered to new parents, etc. Most of the families hire Postpartum Doulas with good experience in this field.

Key points in the process

• Pursue the HS education or equivalent with biology and pass the concerned examinations of any recognized board.
• Obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing or psychology or social work or any other related disciplines.
• Join for the certified course in Postpartum Doula and gain experience through training programmes.
• Search for the clients who hire Postpartum Doulas and apply for it.

Skills required for a Postpartum Doula

Postpartum Doulas primary requires good experience in the concerned field. Also they must have brilliant skills to carry out their duties. They need thorough knowledge about the newborn caring and related issues. Since they have to educate the new parents and family about the information on how to adjust with new child, they must have good communication skills and interpersonal qualities.