The Cost of A Doula

    As a rule of thumb, doulas spend about 30 -50 working hours with their clients, and anticipate being on call for the two weeks prior to the due date and for two weeks after (672 hours anticipated to be on call).  Most doulas have been to some type of formal training and have invested a lot of finances into the certification.  They are considered to be a paraprofessional, and treat their work like a business.  To be a quality doula, one must be able to drop everything at once when the phone call comes in, making it difficult to be gainfully employed at a typical job.  In addition, her work often prevents her family from being able to enjoy a trip to the beach or lake, and when she is called in, it is for an unknown amount of time.  This can be taxing on her family and marriage, and for this reason, it is advocated that the doula be paid according to this loving sacrifice that she so passionately makes. 
    The cost of doula services spreads to both extremes, with some doing all of their work voluntarily, to others charging lofty fees that exceed $1500.   The cost of doula services depends on several factors.

1.    The economic condition of your community
2.    The experience of your doula
3.    The services that your doula will provide
4.    Whether or not your doula works within a triad or group of doulas
5.    Whether or not your insurance will cover the expense (it is happening more frequently)

No one should be denied the service of a doula based on ability to pay.  Most, if not all, doulas will charge on a sliding scale or will take barter.  Many junior doulas are willing to offer services at reduced or no cost to gain experience.  And most brand new doulas will pay YOU to let them come to your birth!  This of course is not required, and is said in jest, but it is the attitude and fervent passion that is in the heart of the women God has called to be His birth maidservants.  

Locating A Doula

Almost every community has at least one working doula, and many areas are saturated with the service.  The idea has become increasingly more popular, making it easier to find someone nearby.  As time passes, Christian doulas are becoming more prevalent as well.  There are several resources that will assist you in finding that right person for your birth.

1.    www.ChristianChildbirth.org
2.    www.atfm.com
3.    www.christianbirth.org
4.    www.cappa.net
5.    www.dona.org
6.    www.childbirthsolutions.com/doulafinder/index.php
7.    www.childbirth.org
8.    www.birthpartners.com
9.    Calling your local childbirth educator
10.  Asking your care provider
11.  Asking your local midwife

The doula might seem like the newest member of the team, but she is actually the oldest.  Throughout time, women have been helping other women have babies.  Now that the idea is being revisited, we are finding out that she is the most important player on the obstetrical team when it comes to the comfort and satisfaction of birth. Be encouraged to find and hire a doula, you will cherish her!