Progyny

More about doulas

A doula is a member of the care team that provides non-medical support to birthing parents and families throughout the stages of pregnancy, childbirth, and post-partum. Having additional emotional, physical, and educational support gives birthing parents a chance to have a safe, memorable and more empowered birth experience.

How doulas can support you

Prenatal visits

• Discussing birth preferences
• Providing evidence-based information
• Demonstrating labor positions
• Practicing coping techniques

During labor

• Comfort measures such as breathing and position changes
• Pain management
• Emotional support

After the baby arrives

• Non-medical newborn care
• Infant feeding education
• Emotional support
• Light household tasks

The benefits of working with a doula

No matter your age, location, experience or support system, there are many advantages of using a doula. Positive birth outcomes for both parent and infant may include:

• Reducing the need for cesarean birth
• Shortening the length of labor
• Decreasing the need for medical interventions like medication or invasive procedures
• Improving communication with your medical team prior, during or after your pregnancy
• Advocating for your choices during the birthing process

Choosing a doula

Selecting a doula is a highly personal decision. Consider compatibility, comfort level, and any specialized skills you are seeking during and after your pregnancy.

Here are some tips to help you select a doula:

• Compile a list of priorities and concerns about your pregnancy and birth.
• Set up an interview and ask about things like availability, how they handle conflict with medical providers, or what type of support they provide.
• Afterwards, ask yourself: Does this person make me feel heard and supported? Can I spend long hours with them? Do they understand and respect my priorities?

Find a covered doula

To be eligible for coverage, doulas must be state certified as a Traditional Health Worker Doula and enrolled with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) as an Oregon Medicaid provider (OHP) with an Oregon Medicaid ID. 

1. Visit the Traditional Healthworker Registry
2. Under Certification Type, select Birth Doula from the drop-down menu
3. Meet with the doula to go over your priorities and questions
4. Ask the doula if they are DMAP-registered

Once you’ve selected your doula, share this important doula provider guide, which gives them the information they need to file claims with Moda Health.