Scope of Practice

  • The doula will provide quality, evidence-based information and support to the client and partner (if applicable) during the prenatal, birth, and postpartum periods.
  • The doula will not perform clinical or medical tasks.
  • The doula will not speak for the client. The doula helps the client advocate for herself by encouraging her to ask questions of her care provider and express preferences and concerns.
  • The doula will not make decisions for the client. The doula will provide evidence-based information and support the client’s decisions.
  • The doula will provide continuity of care. It is up to the doula to make back-up arrangements with another doula to ensure services for the client if the doula is sick or unable to attend.
  • For needs beyond the scope of the doulas training, referrals are made to appropriate resources.

The Doula Scope of Practice as outlined in this document is recognized by Birth Ways International, CAPPA, DONA, and Doulas of Regina.

Code of Ethics

  • Conduct
    1. The doula acts in accordance with the highest standard of professional and personal integrity.
    2. The doula strives to become and remain proficient through continuing educations, affiliation with related organizations, and associations with other labour/birth/postpartum support providers.
  • Ethical Responsibility to Clients
    1. The doulas primary responsibility is to her clients.
    2. The doula will respect the privacy of the clients and hold in confidence all personal information obtained during the course of professional service.
    3. The doula works with her clients reliably, without fail, for the term of the agreement, unless a formal arrangement has been made to dissolve the relationship.
    4. The doula will communicate fees clearly, including terms, services provided, and refund policy.
  • Ethical Responsibility to Colleagues
    1. The doula will treat colleagues and health professionals with respect, courtesy, fairness, and good faith.
  • Ethical Responsibility to the Profession
    1. The doula promotes awareness and education regarding doula support.
    2. The doula represents the profession well.
    3. The doula will uphold and advance the values, ethics, knowledge, and mission of the profession.