Intro to Advocacy for Doulas

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!