Postpartum depression (PPD) affects approximately one in seven women, posing significant challenges for new mothers and their families. Unfortunately, suicide remains a leading cause of death in women during the first year postpartum. A recent segment on CBS New’s Eye on America highlighted innovative approaches to treating PPD. As doulas, it is vital we be […]
Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Impacts Longterm Health – New Study Finds
A recent study found that certain blood pressure patterns during pregnancy can increase the risk of future hypertension in the five years following birth. Doulas need to be familiar with blood pressure during pregnancy. Doulas are not clinical; they do not treat or diagnose anything. However, as doulas, we educate the families we support about […]
How Doulas Help with VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is something many parents hope for. Current evidence supports VBAC as a safe option for the majority of parents who previously had a c-section. Doulas help with VBAC in many ways. Fear of complications, medical policies, and emotional uncertainty can make the journey to a VBAC daunting. This is where […]
Why a Birth Doula Should Become a Postpartum Doula
As a birth doula, you play an important role in supporting families during pregnancy and birth. Your presence provides emotional, physical, and educational support to help empower growing families. But what about after birth? The postpartum period is a vulnerable time where many families feel under supported. As a birth doula, become a postpartum doula […]
Live Virtual Doula Training
In January, the International Doula Institute held its first LIVE Birth Doula Certification workshop. At IDI, we are committed to finding ways to make doula training more accessible. By offering a weekend workshop, we made it possible for over thirty doulas to meet the certification requirements in a short period of time. Our first ever […]
Why Doulas Should Become Certified Breastfeeding Counselors
Doulas play a critical role in supporting families. We support families throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. As doulas, we offer emotional, physical, and informational support during one of the most exciting but vulnerable times. Becoming a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor can help doulas provide more support to the families they serve. At the International […]