Intro to Advocacy for Doulas
- Anne Wallen, Director of MWI
- Apr 30, 2025
- 2 min read
During our Intro to Advocacy for Doulas, we will unpack and explore some very key issues surrounding the role of a doula and how we can support our client's in a real and positive way. We will provide clear examples and scripting to help you make sure your clients' are heard and their wishes are respected.
What is Advocacy?
2 Main Definitions that Impact Our Role:
General definition, to support, to speak out in favor of (not ambassador)
Medical advocate - legal role
What do people THINK advocacy is?
2 “Good Intentions” Groups:
Do not advocate (med-loyalist)
Bodyguard mindset (shield and voice of)
What makes advocacy different in a medical setting?
Legal implications for client, for hospital staff, for YOU the doula
This is where your client is CHOOSING to give birth
Dealing with physiological birth ignorance, with grace and patience
Why Advocacy (for Doulas) is ALL ABOUT CONSENT
Ensuring Consent - Preparation before birth
Guarding Consent - asking for consent when no one else does
Documenting Consent - making it clear when consent has been given or not
Navigating the “Raise Their Voice” Concept
Clear Examples
Scripting and Timing
Our own legal loopholes :)
Hopefully these are helpful to you as you develop your business. If you're already a doula and would like to get a little help with creating or growing the professional side of your business, we offer a great 3 week series called Birth Biz Bootcamp. You don't have to be a labor doula to attend, or even a MaternityWise student or graduate doula, this is for anyone who has a birth related business. Our next one is happening soon! Click here to find the next dates available: https://www.maternitywise.com/locate-a-workshop
If you would like to learn more about how to become a doula, click here: https://www.maternitywise.com/certification-programs
We sincerely hope to continue to influence and shape the birthing world, as we grow and show up for families everywhere!
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