She has answered some questions for us regarding Doulas and how to get started:

How would you describe what a doula does? A doula gives emotional and physical support during labor. She also provides the Mommie with information to make informed choices about the birth and care of her baby.

How did you first learn about doula's, and what sparked your interest? I first heard about doula's from my midwife with my last pregnancy. She asked if I was going to use one, I had no idea what she was talking about. She explained what a doula does, and how doulas can help lessen the length of labour and cesarean rates. I didn't have a doula, but that sparked my interest in them. After the birth of my son, I looked more into what a doula was and how to become one. I found DONA Doulas of North America online. I signed up for a workshop and the rest is history.

How long does it take to become a doula, and what was this experience like for you? The workshop I attended was only one weekend. You then have a number of books to read and you do a report on one or two of them (depends on the agency you certify with). You then have to attend 3 births and have a midwife or other professional give a review of you, as well as the client. You take an open book test in which you much get at least an 80% and after all that you can apply for certification. But, like all professionals your education is ongoing. So you will always be learning, taking workshops, and going to conferences. I really enjoyed all the reading. I wish I had read this stuff while I was pregnant. I would have been better prepared for a number of things.

How long have you been a doula, and what is your most rewarding experience? I have been a doula since '2000. My most rewarding experience is watching Mommies faces when they have finally made it through the last stages of labour and are holding their baby in their arms and basking in the love of their baby. The energy of birth is like nothing else out there. It really is an awesome thing to attend a birth. Giving of myself on a voluntary basis for Mommies who can't afford a doula, is also very rewarding. I wouldn't want anyone to miss out just because they didn't have the money.

What is the earning potential of a doula, and are there many opportunities out there? You can really do well as a doula. It really depends on where you live. Birth doulas can make any where from $150 per birth to $700+ per birth. The higher end will be in areas like the bay area and other wealthier areas. Postpartum doulas are usually paid hourly anywhere from $10.00 an hour to $50.00 an hour. Again it all depends on where you live. The demand for doulas is greater now than it has ever been. With more and more Mommies reading to inform themselves about birthing options, they are becoming aware of the benefits of having a doula attend their birth. Doulas are and will continue to be a necessary part of the birthing team.

What is the hardest part of being a doula, for you? The hardest part of being a doula is attending a birth in which the mommie loses confidence in herself. She gives up and really doesn't try anymore. She foregoes all her wishes and gives into the medical staff. Also, if a mommie loses her baby, it is really tough to watch. You still have to be there for her even though you too are grieving. You need to be her rock, her comfort, and her guide. You are so bonded with the mommie and daddie that when they lose their baby, it's like you lost your baby too. It is a very difficult thing to deal with.

Are there specialties that you can go into as a doula, if so, please name a few? Most definitely. There are birth doulas and postpartum doulas and antepartum doulas. Each has their special touch- their special unique offering. Some offer massage, meditation, guided imagery, hypnobirthing, water birthing, Postpartum doulas can do anything from grocery shopping, support groups, laundry, light housekeeping, teaching, breastfeeding assistance and the list goes on.

Can you work independently or do you have to work along side a midwife? Most doulas are independent. Some work via co-operatives and others work along side a midwife. There are also doulas in the hospital setting. Sutter Davis has a volunteer doula program. If you choose to birth with them you have the option of having a doula attend your birth. Also, Birth and Beyond has a volunteer doula program. You are matched with a mommie and follow her through her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

What was the best advice given to you? My doula instructor told us that We are doulas already. Being a doula comes from the heart first and the education comes second.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in becoming a doula? First I would read some good books like Mothering the Mother or the Birth Partner to get an idea of what a doula does and does not do. I would then go to the DONA site and look up the requirements for certification. (DONA is not the only certifying agency but they are the most well known) I would do the reading, the report, and then sign up for a workshop. But, you could just attend the birth of a friend or relative and see how you feel about it. You will know right away whether you are Doula or not. Your heart will tell you.

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