Postpartum Doula Scope of Practice

1. Services Rendered. The postpartum doula cares for the mother and her family in their home in the first few weeks following the birth. The doula provides non-medical support and companionship, assists with newborn care and sibling adjustment, meal preparation and household organization. The doula offers evidence-based information on newborn feeding, emotional and physical recovery from childbirth and other issues related to the postpartum period, and can make referrals if necessary.
   
   
2. Limits to Practice. DONA International Standards and Certification apply to emotional, physical and educational support only. The DONA certified doula does not perform clinical or medical tasks such as examining the mother or baby, or taking temperatures, blood pressure checks, or any other type of postpartum clinical care.
   
   
3. Referrals. For client needs beyond the scope of the doula’s training, referrals are made to appropriate resources.

Adapted from Dona.org