The role of a doula is an important one, and is becoming increasingly popular. Doulas provide emotional and physical support to parents-to-be during pregnancy and childbirth. If you want to become a doula in Illinois, you should know that there are specific steps to take in order to become certified. In this article, we’ll discuss what it takes to become a doula in Illinois, from education requirements to the certification process.
What is a Doula?
A doula is a non-medical professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a pregnant person and their partner during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They typically provide guidance on the birthing process and help to ensure that the birthing experience is as positive and as smooth as possible.
Why Become a Doula?
Becoming a doula is a great way to help others and make a difference in their lives. Doulas provide invaluable support to expectant parents and can be an invaluable resource throughout the pregnancy, labor, and postpartum process. It’s also a great way to make a living, as doulas can charge for their services.
Education Requirements
In order to become a doula in Illinois, you must first meet certain education requirements. At a minimum, you must have a high school diploma or GED. It’s also beneficial to have some experience working with pregnant women, such as experience in nursing, midwifery, or childbirth education.
Certification Requirements
In order to become a certified doula in Illinois, you must complete a doula training program. There are many doula training programs available, both in-person and online. Look for a program that is accredited by DONA International, an organization that sets the standards for doula certification.
Continuing Education Requirements
Once you become a certified doula in Illinois, you must fulfill continuing education requirements in order to maintain your certification. DONA International requires doulas to complete at least 10 hours of continuing education every three years.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Doula in Illinois
What does a doula do in Illinois?
A doula in Illinois provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a pregnant person and their partner during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They typically provide guidance on the birthing process and help to ensure that the birthing experience is as positive and as smooth as possible.
What qualifications do you need to become a doula in Illinois?
In order to become a doula in Illinois, you must have a high school diploma or GED and complete a doula training program that is accredited by DONA International.
Do I need to take continuing education courses to maintain my doula certification in Illinois?
Yes, DONA International requires doulas to complete at least 10 hours of continuing education every three years in order to maintain their certification.
Conclusion
Becoming a doula in Illinois is a great way to make a difference in the lives of expectant parents. There are specific steps to take in order to become certified, such as meeting education requirements and completing a doula training program. Once you become a certified doula in Illinois, you must also fulfill continuing education requirements in order to maintain your certification. If you’re looking to become a doula in Illinois, the steps outlined in this article can help you get started.
