Understanding the Role of a Birth Doula

Global Perinatal Services Birth Doula Position Letter

What does a birth doula do? When should a doula join a client in labor? How do doulas work alongside medical providers, partners, and families?

Global Perinatal Services (GPS) developed this position letter to provide clear, evidence-informed guidance on the role of birth doulas and the support families should be able to expect.

The paper explores doula support during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum; working alongside medical teams; culturally responsive care; doula training and professional development; and questions families can ask when choosing a doula.

At GPS, we believe doulas and medical providers have different but complementary roles—and that families should not have to choose between excellent medical care and compassionate, continuous support.

This resource is for families, doulas, healthcare providers, community partners, and anyone interested in understanding high-quality doula care.

Read the GPS Birth Doula Position Pape

Building the Future of Maternal Health in Washington

The conditions in which families begin their lives shape everything that follows — health, stability, opportunity, and long-term well-being. Yet too many families still navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum without the support they need.

Through our $1 Million for Mothers Campaign, Global Perinatal Services is working to expand access to culturally responsive maternal health care across Washington. This campaign is an investment in healthier families, stronger communities, and a future where every parent has the support, dignity, and care they deserve.

Every Family Deserves a Safe Start.

Understanding the Role of a Birth Doula

Building the Future of Maternal Health in Washington

Global Perinatal Services: Official Perinatal Safe Spot

We gratefully acknowledge the following funders and individual donors whose past support helped make our work possible. Thank you!