Calgary CARE Doula Program

What is a Doula?

The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.

Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.

A Birth Doula

Recognizes birth as a key experience the mother will remember all her life
Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
Assists the woman in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth
Stays with the woman throughout the labor
Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the woman get the information she needs to make informed decisions
Facilitates communication between the laboring woman, her partner and her clinical care providers
Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting the woman's memory of the birth experience
Allows the woman's partner to participate at his/her comfort level

(Excerpt from DONA website)

Attend a Client Information Session

UPCOMING DATES & LOCATIONS
No upcoming sessions - Check back soon!

Connect with a Doula

Why Volunteer?

C.A.R.E Doulas believe and actively support the vision of
'A Doula for Every Woman who Wants One' by helping to ensure that birth support is available unhindered by ability to pay.

We are currently seeking Birth Doulas and Mentor Doulas.

C.A.R.E Birth Doulas are

Trained and/or Certified by DONA or other approved organization
Committed to volunteering their services for at least one birth client per year
Developing relationships with birth clients during pregnancy
Willing to attend ongoing training specific to their role with C.A.R.E

C.A.R.E Mentor Doulas are

Certified by DONA or other approved organization
Experienced and have attended at least 25 births
Committed to mentoring at least one Birth Doula per year
Willing to attend ongoing training specific to their role with C.A.R.E

Attend a Volunteer Information Session

UPCOMING DATES & LOCATIONS
No upcoming sessions - Check back soon!

Apply to Volunteer or Learn More

Become a Referral Agency/Partner

The Calgary C.A.R.E Doula Program Network includes agencies that serve Calgary's low-income and at-risk pregnant women.

The Calgary C.A.R.E Doula Program agrees to:

Match agency clients with Doula volunteers (whenever possible)
Ensure volunteers adhere to strict codes of ethical and professional accountability standards including complete screening and training

Calgary C.A.R.E Network Members agree to:

Endorse and support the program vision within their organization
Refer clients to the program
Maintain specific outcome records

Join the Advisory Committee

We are currently seeking advisory input from professionals experienced and involved in the following communities:

Pregnancy/Birthing
Social Services (serving at-risk/low-income/homeless pregnant women)