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Recertification

Recertification

As professionals dedicated to excellence and impactful care, we understand that learning is a continuous journey and we’re so happy to invest heavily each month in newsletters, webinars, new courses, program updates and more to serve you as our alumni. This month’s blog shares an important reminder about staying relevant, effective, and confident in our roles: recertification.

When Doula Canada became an approved vocational school years ago, we undertook that for students to be able to use RESPs to pay for their education. One of the requirements of that program and of many other provincial and state doula associations was a requirement for recertification to be part of the organization’s standards. This requirement has been in place since 2017 when this was first introduced. See FAQ item posted here. This requirement however has not been enforced administratively and was up to individual doulas to submit their Continuing Education Units (CEUs). 

We’re now introducing a more formal way for us to track and support alumni with this process. 

What does recertification entail?

Trust us when we say we want this to be EASY. No one wants a complicated and convoluted recertification process. We will require only 2 things for recertification: 15 CEUs and an up-to-date CPR/First Aid.

THERE WILL BE NO FEE FOR RECERTIFICATION AT THIS TIME. The earliest date we will require recertification is December 2025, one year from now.

Why is Recertification Important?

There has long been debate about many aspects of our profession, credentialing in general and of course the professional aspects of being a “profession” at all! As leaders who’ve been working in the field for over 20 years we’ve seen a LOT of change. Similar to modern midwifery, the doula profession has experienced a conflicting balance between wanting the work to be accessible for families but also wanting to maintain independence from the colonial and capitalistic aspects that formal regulation brings. Ultimately it always calls for a trade-off or balance of priorities, needs and desires. As we look to the United States and see more and more states covering doula services through Medicaid, the future is pretty clear: our profession is trending in the direction of expansion. This means more doulas and more coverage, and more structure.

How Can I Get CEUs?

Have you noticed that Doula School offers our alumni FREE monthly webinars? Each webinar is worth 1 CEU and they are hosted almost every month of the year! This is a cost effective way to get your CEUs. We also launch new courses each year, giving you the chance to learn a new skill AND gain valuable CEUs. And of course you’re always welcome to take courses from other organizations that offer something you’re wanting to learn about. We will also have other simple ways to get CEUs at no cost. We will be launching a recertification guide in the coming weeks and it will give you lots of information about how to get everything done. Please note that if you unsubscribe from our newsletters  you won’t receive important information about webinars or recertification notices. You can resubscribe here on the website.

When do I need to recertify by?

We are giving all students one year to complete these steps. You are welcome to submit earlier if you prefer (and are due for recertification) but it will not be REQUIRED until December, 2025 for those who certified before December 2022. 

If you certified after December 2022 then count 3 years from the time you certified for your due date. See more info in the FAQ about how to calculate your recertification period. 

 

FAQs

Why does Recertification Matter?

Staying Current with Industry Standards

The field we work in is dynamic and continually evolving. Recertification ensures you are up-to-date with the latest research, best practices, and trends. This not only elevates your own practice but also upholds the standards doula clients expect and deserve.

Strengthening Your Professional Skills

Recertification often involves engaging in advanced education, workshops, and reflective practice. These opportunities allow you to deepen your knowledge and refine your skills, ultimately making you a more effective and informed practitioner.

Building Credibility and Trust

Clients, peers, and employers value those who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and continued education. Recertification reflects your dedication and passion for ongoing improvement, reinforcing your credibility within the community.

Networking and Community Growth

Recertification often provides an avenue to reconnect with peers, share insights, and grow as part of a collective. This network is invaluable for support, growth, and even collaborating on new initiatives.

Adapting to Emerging Needs

As professionals, we serve a diverse range of needs that may evolve over time. Recertification helps us stay informed and prepared to meet these needs with competence and empathy.

Renewing Your Commitment to Excellence

Recertification is more than fulfilling a requirement; it is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to providing the highest quality care and expertise to clients. We are here to support you every step of the way, with resources, guidance, and opportunities to make this process enriching and rewarding.

What is recertification?

Recertification is a way to ensure that our doulas and educators are maintaining their high level of knowledge and skills by showing proof of continuing education, even after their program is complete.

Why do we ask you to recertify?

We want to ensure that our doulas and educators are viewed as leaders in their field, and having organization-wide policies that show that our alumni are regularly continuing their education allows us to demonstrate our high standards. This policy also keeps us on par with other professions, such as Registered Nurses, Massage Therapists, Paramedics and Social Workers, which will allow us to keep moving the profession forward in recognition of the value of our work.

How often do I need to recertify?

We ask that you recertify every 3 years. You will receive notification when you are approaching your recertification deadline. If you graduated between January 1st and June 30th, your deadline will be June 30th of your recertification year. If your graduation date was between July 1st and December 31st, your deadline will be December 31st of your recertification year.

What if I don’t want to recertify?

If you don’t want to recertify then don’t! Quite simply there is nothing more ‘doula-y’ than doing what you want (after all, isn’t that what we help all our clients to do?). If you no longer feel value in certification or recertification then ignore our reminder emails and carry on!

IN-PERSON | POSTPARTUM DOULA | LETHBRIDGE, AB | APRIL 15-16, 2024

POSTPARTUM DOULA TRAINING

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Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your IN-PERSON training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? Prefer to learn in person?

Join us for our client-centred and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and hands-on demonstrations! The in-person workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the in-person course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

*If you’d like to register for the Birth Doula AND Postpartum Doula please select that ticket.

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Understanding the Legalities of Your Doula Biz

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1698083224653{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Are you seeking a better understanding of the legal implications of owning and operating a business that provides personal care? Do you want to make sure your contracts protect you? Would you like to ask an expert questions about the legal obligations that apply to your record keeping, maintaining confidentiality, and documenting and reporting things you may witness as a doula?

Description/workshop overview:

In this 90-minute virtual webinar, participants will have an opportunity to ask Anne Posno, legal counsel at Lenczner Slaght about the legal side of running a doula business. Anne will provide a brief overview of legal considerations related to issues like:

“Duty of Care” and “Negligence” definitions and their implications for unregulated client care services
Reporting obligations if you witness something in a hospital, birth centre, or home.
Contracts and contract breaches
What to document and how to maintain your records

This presentation will be followed by a Q&A, allowing participants to ask questions that matter to how they do business. Anne has broad expertise in cases involving health provider negligence, commercial disputes, fraud, and privacy.

This webinar is offered freely to members and alumni of DTC and is $25 for external participants. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance that can be used as a continuing education unit at DTC.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

IN PERSON | BIRTH DOULA | OTTAWA | JAN 12 -14th, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1695572393360{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your IN-PERSON training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? Prefer to learn in person?

Join us for our client-centred and trauma-informed doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and hands-on demonstrations! Our workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the in-person course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules, and related assignments alongside attendance at the in person training. 

*If you’d like to register for the Dual Stream (Labour Doula AND Postpartum Doula) please select the Dual Stream fee.

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational pre requisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
fertility Health Care research

A Practical Guide to Navigating PCOS

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1694731059747{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month upon us, we felt it imperative to discuss the medical condition considered to be one of the leading causes of infertility and a condition most commonly undiagnosed. PCOS is not a lifestyle illness – it is a diagnosed medical condition that can be debilitating. A person does not get PCOS because of their lifestyle. PCOS is a common chronic hormonal condition that causes hormone imbalances, irregular cycles, cysts in the ovaries, lack of ovulation, among other long-term health problems that affect physical and emotional wellbeing. According to the World Health Organization, PCOS affects an estimated 13-18% of individuals with uteruses who are of reproductive age. This is an alarming number. What’s even more unsettling is that there is no cure for PCOS and up to 70% of affected people will go undiagnosed worldwide. Due to a lack of awareness, education, and taboo around fertility conversations many people do not discuss their reproductive health and menstrual cycles with their families and friends. If you speak to someone of reproductive age you are likely to find out that they probably know someone affected by PCOS, they may have been diagnosed with PCOS, or they might think that they have PCOS but be undiagnosed.

Individuals who are not diagnosed and go untreated may be at higher risk for developing conditions that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, obesity, gestational diabetes, and high cholesterol. The condition also puts people at risk of developing increased thickness of the uterine lining, uterine cancer, having a preterm delivery and preeclampsia, and a greater chance of having a miscarriage. Research indicates that early testing, diagnosis, and intervention of PCOS improves fertility preservation and prevents complications such as obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, infertility, and cardiovascular issues later in life, especially in at-risk cases.

I might have PCOS

If you suspect that you may have PCOS meet with a medical doctor who specializes in hormonal disorders to discuss your concerns. They will check for symptoms, discuss your medical history, and discuss the regularity of menstrual cycle. Some of the common tests for PCOS might include a physical exam – such as blood pressure and a pelvic exam etc…, blood tests, and a pelvic ultrasound.

I’ve been Diagnosed with PCOS

It’s important to talk about this misunderstood condition and its challenges because it presents differently for everyone in ‘real life’ and is considered a lifelong condition.

If you or someone you know have received an early diagnosis of PCOS, this information may be helpful in navigating where to start and getting the support you need:

  • Get a second opinion
  • Determine and understand your condition and presenting symptoms
  • Connect with a medical doctor who specializes in Gynecology and/or PCOS itself
  • Find a supportive medical team who validate your concerns and align with your long-term goals
  • Connect with a Fertility Doula who can support you throughout your journey
  • Find out if the diagnosis was prompted because of Hyperandrogenism, Anovulation/Oligoovulation, or Polycystic Ovaries on an ultrasound so that an appropriate customized treatment and support plan can be created
  • Get familiar with the concept of insulin resistance because there are a number of factors that contribute to high insulin in PCOS, and insulin resistance has been found to be one of the central factors of the condition
  • Determine the major component of insulin resistance in your condition
  • Get familiar with the long-term health considerations in PCOS
  • Learn about other holistic health modalities such as a Naturopathic Doctor for example who can support your condition
  • Explore which treatments will improve your individual symptoms
  • Adjust your lifestyle to reduce the PCOS symptoms

What else can I  do?

Alongside the goals of PCOS Awareness Month we can:

  • increase awareness and education
  • lobby for improved diagnosis and treatment of the disorder
  • disseminate information on diagnosis and treatment
  • hold agencies responsible for the improved quality of life and outcomes of those affected
  • promote the need for research to advance understanding of PCOS: improved diagnosis, treatment and care options, and for a cure for PCOS
  • acknowledge the struggles of those affected
  • make PCOS a public health priority

To lean more, visit:

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Categories
Business certification Childbirth Educator

Where Can My Doula Career Take Me?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1694438520551{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]As unregulated health care professionals, a doula’s role involves advocacy, education, counselling, collaboration and negotiation to provide physical, emotional and informational support to individuals and families across the full spectrum of their reproductive choices. This role relies on a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge. With the foundation of your doula experience and education you can choose to grow your career path in many different directions. 

So let’s talk about some career options that complement each other. 

Lactation Consultant or IBCLC 

These are two different avenues of support. 

A Lactation Consultant/ Educator works with families from preconception through the stage of weaning offering education, encouragement, counseling, an experienced point of view, and fostering confidence, and a commitment to body feeding. Lactation Educators can be found working in a variety of settings to offer their services to families. Families can find them working as public health educators, WIC peer counselors, hospital/community educators, pediatric support professionals, and in private practice as educators. You can find certifications online for these programs. 

An International board-certified lactation consultants (IBCLC) is an allied healthcare professional who specializes in caring for bodyfeeding parents. They’re qualified to treat common nursing problems along with more serious conditions such as mastitis and clogged milk ducts. Lactation consultants most often support parents in how to increase milk supply, find the best nursing position, and manage breastfeeding pain. IBCLCs are held to strict standards. To be accredited, they must complete 90 hours of training, 300 to 1,000 hours of clinical experience, and extensive health sciences coursework. An accredited lactation consultant must also recertify every five years and continue their education.

Prenatal Fitness Instructor

As a Prenatal & Postnatal Fitness Instructor, you can help educate and train clients in all stages of pregnancy – before, during, and after – about what is safe for them and, conversely, what should be avoided to help protect the health of both the gestational parent and baby. Furthermore, fitness training is a fun way to meet new clients and get to know them in a positive environment. Prenatal fitness certifications are available both online and in-person. Take a look in your area to see what works best.

Perinatal Counsellor

Perinatal counselling provides emotional support and treatment for individuals (and couples) who are having a difficult time adjusting to pregnancy and parenthood, who are experiencing a perinatal mood or anxiety problem, or who are experiencing both. Some of this work can naturally overlap with a client’s pregnancy and birth journey. If you really enjoy the counseling and support side of birth work you may want to become a psychotherapist or mental health professional. You can find certification courses through college or university or through private vocational training schools. 

Birth Photographer

If you have a creative eye, you can capture the moments of birth for clients on camera. A few of our alumni have combined their creativity with a love of birth. You can either work solely as a Birth Photographer, documenting the pregnancy journey and birth. Or you can have photography as an additional service available through your doula work. It depends what you’re comfortable with and how you’d like to structure your business. Each client is different and you’ll want to work with them to understand what their goals are and what kind of pictures they’re looking for. The great thing about this career path is a relatively low barrier to entry. If you already have a love of photography and a camera you can get started. Alternatively, there are a variety of photography courses available both online and in person.

Midwife

A healthcare professional that assists with the labour and delivery of a new baby. Midwifes are experts in low risk pregnancy and birth, providing care to patients and delivering the baby. In the case where there are concerns or complications, a midwife can transfer care to a physician if needed. A midwife is different from a doula, in that they are a trained medical professional who can deliver a baby. A doula is trained to provide physical, emotional, and informational support to clients. However, a doula is not a medical professional. A question we see a lot at Doula School is does a client benefit from having a midwife AND a doula – the answer is yes! They both provide very important services to clients, and many people find it helpful to have both. Training to be a midwife typically takes between 3 and 4 years, depending on the program and its requirements.

Labour & Delivery Nurse

They work as main points of support for OBGYNs, monitoring of patient vitals, administering medication, and establishing communication with expectant parents. Once a baby is born, the L&D Nurse acts as an informational resource to parents, to monitor neonatal vitals, to ensure the birthing person isn’t experiencing postpartum complications. Nursing degrees can vary depending on where you are located, however they typically take 3-4 years.

Whatever path you decide to take, know you have a foundation of knowledge that will help carry you through. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

WEBINAR- Gender-Based Violence Can Happen to Care Workers: What You Need to Know

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1697733101964{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Have you ever received communication from a potential client that made you feel uncomfortable, but couldn’t quite put a finger on why? Would you know what steps to take if you felt unsafe in a client’s home? Who can you reach out to about problem clients?

Gender-based violence (GBV) can happen to workers in feminized professions, such as doula care. Working in homes and other private settings can present specific types of GBV risks. Knowing how to protect yourself, and how to react and respond if you experience gender-based violence as a doula is an important part of protecting your well-being in this work and setting yourself up for long-term success in your career.

In this 90-minute virtual webinar facilitated by Keira Grant, EDI Co-Lead at DTC participants will explore:

What is gender-based violence and what are its causes
How does it manifest in the “caring professions”
Recognizing red flags in prospective clients
Avoiding the victim-blaming pitfall
Mental health and resilience strategies if you experience GBV

This webinar will include case studies and scenarios that encourage participants to plan strategies for maintaining their safety when working with clients.

This webinar is offered freely to members and alumni of DTC and is $35 for external participants. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance that can be used as a continuing education unit at DTC.

Keira Grant is a certified birth and postpartum doula (Doula Canada) with a Master’s Degree in health research and policy analysis (UofT). She applies her academic knowledge of health equity and the social determinants of health and her lived experience as a Queer, Black Jamaican-Canadian cis woman to create and facilitate content for Doula Canada on a range of equity, diversity, and inclusion issues, including this webinar exploring systemic gender discrimination and gender-based oppression.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
Anti-Oppression decolonization indigenous doula national indigenous peoples day Uncategorised

Let’s Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1687365796950{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Aaniin Doulas!

This month is National Indigenous History Month, how have you been celebrating?
The Indigenous excellence at DTC shines bright, and we are so grateful for the many contributions Indigenous birth helpers have brought to the community, historically and currently!
We hope this Indigenous Peoples Day, Indigenous and Non-Indigenous folks can reflect on how to create more accessible care for Indigenous families, co-resist against systems, and use their doula roles to uphold Indigenous rights.
Some ideas on how to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day:
  1. Learn whose land you reside on. www.native-land.ca
  2. Attend a local or virtual Indigenous Peoples Day event
  3.  Donate to Indigenous-led organizations upholding Indigenous rights today
  4. Pick a film to watch from the National Film Board of Canada’s catalogue of over 200 Indigenous-created films
  5. Follow and amplify the voices of Indigenous people through social media platforms
  6. Read through the Indigenous Ally Toolkit or How to Become an Indigenous Ally
  7. Find a CBC Reclaimed playlist and explore the many different worlds of Indigenous music, or start by watching the documentary Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World
  8. Understand the issues facing Indigenous reproductive health in Canada
  9. Join me June 29  from 12-3 pm EST,  for a Celebrating Indigenous Changemakers: NIHM Watch Party and discussion on Turtle Island Heros. This is open to Indigenous and Non-Indigenous members. We will be screening some Indigenous pieces, including clips of award-winning documentaries, spoken word pieces, and music to celebrate Indigenous culture and history. We will also be having an open circle discussion about the pieces being viewed, and how they relate to doula care in Canada. register here
At Doula Canada we continue working toward our goals outlined in the DTC Truth and Reconciliation Action Plan for 2023, and we are so excited to announce the launch of our Indigenous History and Allyship module, compulsory in all doula streams, starting in July. This is a three-month pilot, where we will take feedback and then relaunch a final module based on surveys afterward.
We are on Indigenous land, and we must know how to be good relations with one another.
Happy Indigenous Peoples Day and Happy Summer Solstice!
I look forward to seeing you all on June 29 from 12-3 pm EST.
Kayt

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1687096542163{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Kayt (she/her) Inclusion and Engagement Lead, is an Anishnaabe kwe from Bonnechere Algonquin territory and the owner of Sweetgrass Solace Wholistic Support. Her post-secondary education includes a Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of the Arts in Indigenous Studies from Trent University (2021). She is also a certified hatha yoga teacher and a certifying birth and postpartum Doula.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
Anti-racism work Equity

How do we DOula Advocacy?

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What is Advocacy?

“Advocacy” can describe any efforts or actions to change a policy, system, or institution that is in some way harmful to individuals or communities. It can also describe efforts to affect outcomes that are aligned with the needs or interests of particular individuals, groups, or society.

Current examples of advocacy include the efforts of Indigenous communities to expose the atrocities at residential schools and seek truth and reconciliation from the Canadian government.

In the context of perinatal healthcare, advocacy is usually focused on updating practices and policies that are not evidence-based, changing the scope, compensation, or other labour conditions of a health profession or occupation, or health equity and patient rights issues.

In the context of doula practice, advocacy can operate on three levels: self-advocacy, systemic advocacy, and individual advocacy (Gray & Jackson, 2002, Centre for Excellence in Disabilities).

Advocacy is not without controversy. The line between advocacy and activism is unclear and for many, this has a negative association with confrontation, aggression, and violence (Gray & Jackson, 2002).

For doulas, this controversy has some unique dimensions. One such dimension is that the field is growing, changing, and still seeking legitimization and security within the healthcare system. Another is that the philosophy of doula practice is largely focused on patient empowerment, making the role of systemic and individual advocacy unclear and subjective among doulas.

A 2020 paper by S.S. Yam based on interviews with doulas identified three types of tactics that doulas use to advocate for their clients during labour and delivery. She calls these “soft-advocacy” techniques because they differ from what we usually think of as advocacy. Staff and instructors at Doula Canada agreed they used these strategies and had lots of guidance to offer on exactly how to use them. Their guidance was used to develop the advocacy framework.

The three tactics identified by Yam are 1) creating deliberative space, 2) cultural and knowledge brokering, and 3) physical touch and spatial maneuvers.

Creating deliberative space refers to strategies that give the client more time to ask questions and make decisions. One example of how doulas do this is by noticing that care that deviates from their preferences is about to happen and bringing it to the client’s attention, prompting them to ask about the intervention that is about to happen.

Cultural and knowledge brokering refers to the tactics doulas use to make sure the client understands medical jargon or cultural norms. This could involve paying close attention to the information provided by the medical team, observing how well this is understood by the client, and repeating the information in language that the client uses and understands.

Physical touch and spatial maneuvering refer to the ways we use our bodies and physical contact with the client to advocate for their needs. Examples include using our bodies to conceal the client from view, modelling consent by asking permission each time we touch the client and using our presence to back up the client during interactions.

All of this is to say that doulas are indispensable in helping pregnant persons navigate the daunting, confusing, and sometimes violating process of giving birth. They are especially valuable for birthers who are already predisposed to face disadvantages in our medical system due to racism and sexism.  Although doulas are poised to mend critical disparities in maternal health, they alone cannot fix inequities in the health system. Standing up for the rights of pregnant persons must go beyond the delivery room and extend into other spheres of advocacy related to disproportionate access to housing, lack of nutritious food, deficient public transportation systems, and inadequate sexual education.  Advocacy needs to happen with all levels of policy makers, hospital administration and the general public.

Doula Canada has taken our Advocacy Framework and turned it into an accessible tool for birth workers to practice the skills of advocacy for themselves and their clients. It’s downloadable below.

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WEBINAR: Marketing 101- Taking the first steps with your birth business | Monday April 24, 7:30pm

Marketing 101- Taking the first steps with your birth business with Jessica Palmquist

Monday, April 24, 7:30 pm (60-90min)

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ for Doulas when it comes to marketing and running a business and before you decide that digital marketing is right for you, you need to understand what digital marketing is, including what sets it apart from traditional marketing, the skills required, and how you can learn them. This webinar will cover topics that will help Doulas grow their business in-person and online post-pandemic and stand out in a dominantly virtual and social-media-focused society.

Join DTC’s Fertility Coordinator and Doula Instructor Jessica Palmquist as she shares her tips, tricks and techniques to get started!

Investment $35.00 CAD