April 11, 2024
Updated April 18, 2025
15 minute read
A Career Guide to Becoming a Doula
A doula is a trained, non-medical professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals and families through significant health-related experiences. While most commonly associated with childbirth, the scope of doula work is expanding. This role centers on empowering clients, helping them feel safe, comfortable, and heard during pivotal life moments.
Working as a doula can be deeply rewarding, offering the chance to make a tangible difference during vulnerable times. You might find excitement in advocating for a client's preferences during labor, providing calming reassurance, or helping a new family adjust after birth. The connection formed and the ability to positively impact someone's experience are often cited as major draws to this profession.
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Find a path to becoming a Doula. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/career/osrvp5/doul
Reading list
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This textbook is written for nurses who care for women during labor and delivery. It provides comprehensive coverage of the physical and emotional aspects of labor and delivery, as well as the nursing care that is required.
This comprehensive guide provides expectant mothers with up-to-date information on all aspects of childbirth, from prenatal care to labor and delivery. It is written by two experienced obstetricians who have delivered thousands of babies.
This classic guide to natural childbirth provides everything you need to know to have a safe and satisfying birth experience. Ina May Gaskin world-renowned midwife who has helped thousands of women give birth naturally.
Examines the causes of maternal mortality in the United States and makes recommendations for improving the quality of care for pregnant and postpartum women. It is an important read for anyone interested in reducing maternal mortality in the US.
This classic guide to breastfeeding provides everything you need to know to breastfeed your baby successfully. It covers everything from latching and positioning to troubleshooting common problems.
This comprehensive guide to pregnancy provides everything you need to know to have a healthy and fulfilling birth experience. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for expectant parents.
Provides a step-by-step guide to childbirth for birth partners, including what to expect during labor and delivery, how to provide comfort and support, and how to advocate for the mother's wishes.
Highlights the global burden of maternal mortality and calls for increased investment in maternal health services. It is an important read for anyone interested in global health and development.
Classic guide to natural childbirth, written by a midwife who has helped thousands of women give birth. It provides practical advice on how to prepare for labor, manage pain, and deliver a healthy baby.
This comprehensive guide to pregnancy and childbirth provides everything you need to know to have a healthy and fulfilling birth experience. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for expectant parents.
This comprehensive guide to baby care covers everything from feeding and diapering to sleep training and discipline. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for new parents.
Provides detailed information on the stages of labor, pain management techniques, and how to provide support to women during labor and delivery. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for doulas, family, and friends.
This comprehensive guide to pregnancy and childbirth. It provides detailed information on everything from prenatal care to labor and delivery. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for expectant parents.
Comprehensive guide to breastfeeding, written by a non-profit organization that supports breastfeeding mothers. It provides information on how to latch, position, and feed a baby, as well as how to troubleshoot common problems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the causes and consequences of maternal mortality and calls for action to reduce preventable deaths. It is an important read for anyone interested in maternal health and child survival.
Examines the causes and consequences of maternal mortality in developing countries and proposes solutions to reduce preventable deaths. It is an important resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals working to improve maternal health in developing countries.
Provides a week-by-week guide to your baby's development. It explains the physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that your baby will experience during the first year of life.
Provides a comprehensive overview of pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn period. It is written by three experienced childbirth educators who have helped thousands of families prepare for the birth of their children.
Examines the global burden of maternal mortality and calls for urgent action to reduce preventable deaths. It is an important read for anyone interested in global health and development.
Is written for doulas, family, and friends who want to provide support to women during labor and delivery. It provides detailed information on the stages of labor, pain management techniques, and how to create a positive birth experience.
This comprehensive guide to baby care covers everything from feeding and diapering to sleep training and discipline. It is written in a clear and concise style and valuable resource for new parents.
Assesses the progress made in reducing maternal mortality over the past decade. It is an important read for anyone interested in maternal health and child survival.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of obstetrics, including normal and problem pregnancies. It is written by a leading obstetrician who has over 40 years of experience in the field.
This textbook is considered the standard reference on obstetrics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, including the latest research and evidence-based practices.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/osrvp5/doul
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