Doulas are trained volunteers who assist at childbirth. The UCSD Hearts & Hands Volunteer Doula Program wants to offer a doula to every woman who gives birth at the UCSD Medical Center in Hillcrest.
Hearts & Hands is looking for quite a few doulas. ¿Hablas Español? If so, we especially need you.
Volunteer requirements:
- Have emotional and physical strength; birth can be a long, difficult process.
- Complete the doula training.
- Take a TB skin test.
- Provide proof of immunizations.
- Attend a volunteer orientation and safety training.
What does a doula do? A doula is trained in pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. She provides non-medical physical and emotional support to an expectant mother and her family during labor and childbirth. UCSD doulas spend 10 to 14 hours on average at each birth. A doula:
- Stays with the mom through labor and birth
- Helps fathers or partners participate at their comfort level
- Provides continuous one-on-one physical, emotional, and informational support
- Assists other family members and hospital staff
Why would a laboring mom want a doula?
Studies show that doula care results in:
- Shorter labor
- Less need of pain medication
- 50% reduction in Cesarean births
- Better clinical outcomes for mom and baby
To find out more about volunteering as a doula, contact Ann Fulcher, Program Manager. For additional volunteer opportunities, call (619) 543-6370 or visit the UCSD Medical Center Volunteer Services Web site.
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