Doula

About This Role

Working as a Doula involves providing emotional and informational support, comfort measures, and physical coping skills related to labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. This role functions as a companion to the laboring or postpartum mother, tending to her emotional needs and physical comfort, and facilitating support from her personal support team. You will support the patient in speaking for herself, encouraging informed decision-making, self-advocacy, and personal choices.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct non-clinical support to the mother during labor and delivery
• Stay with the patient throughout labor and be on hand during delivery to facilitate communication between the woman, her partner, and clinical care providers
• Maintain constant and close proximity to the mother to help lessen anxiety during labor
• Suggest comfort measures, provide massage and comforting touch
• Encourage and instruct appropriate participation of the partner
• Utilize positioning techniques to enhance comfort and aid rotation and descent of the baby, visualization, breathing techniques, and affirmation
• Keep the patient informed in lay terms of labor progress and what to expect
• Provide constant verbal encouragement and reassurance
• Advocate for the mother, encouraging and helping her fulfill specific desires for her birthing experience
• Assist women in achieving the objectives of the birthing plan
• Develop an initial relationship with the expectant mother upon arrival at the Midwifery Center
• Answer questions and respond to concerns as they arise
• Help clients gain a better understanding of procedures and possible complications relating to pregnancy or delivery
• Provide continuing assistance and support to new mothers and the newborn during the postpartum period
• Help mothers with informational support about feeding and caring for the baby
• Encourage bonding between the baby and mother/other family members

Requirements

• Must be able to provide proof that care as a Doula has been provided for a minimum of three births
• Doula certification from WA, C-Doula, Certified Labor Support Doula, Certified Labor Doula, Certified Doula, DOULA International Doula Institute, Doula ToLabor, Doula Pro Doula, Doula Global Peri Svs, Doula SMC Full Circle, or Doula ANCC, upon hire
• Basic Life Support - CPR, within 30 Days

About the Company

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has a rich history of providing exceptional healthcare, dating back to 1891. The organization has evolved through strategic partnerships and integrations to expand its reach and services across the Puget Sound area. It operates a comprehensive network of 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites across the greater Puget Sound region, offering a full spectrum of health care services grounded in rigorous research and education.