Doula Advocacy: A Non-Negotiable Pillar of Birthwork

Let's set the record straight. Being a doula isn't just about providing comfort measures and educating clients—it's about unapologetically advocating for their rights and choices throughout pregnancy, birth and their postpartum journey. Recently, there's been talk about whether doulas should focus solely on empowering clients to advocate for themselves or doulas advocating for their clients. The truth is, if you're not prepared to be a strong advocate, perhaps being a doula or occupying any space in birthwork isn't your calling. I say this unapologetically, doula work is unequivocally advocacy work and anything less is a disservice to those we support.

I am going to say it in many different ways throughout this post but, if you aren’t going to Advocate get out of the Doula space.

Advocacy is The Unyielding Backbone of Doula Work. Empowerment alone falls short of the comprehensive support individuals need during childbirth, and often times during pregnancy and postpartum. Doulas aren't just passive cheerleaders; we are fierce advocates committed to ensuring our clients' voices are not only heard but respected. If you're not ready to stand up for your clients in the face of adversity, challenge medical professionals when necessary, and fiercely protect their birthing choices, you might want to reconsider your place in the doula community. (In my opinion anyways, others will disagree with this)

Educating clients is crucial yes, but it's only the tip of the iceberg. Advocacy requires active engagement—going to bat for our clients, demanding their autonomy be acknowledged, and challenging a system that often dismisses their preferences. Doulas aren't bystanders; we're active participants in shaping the birthing experience. If you're not ready to roll up your sleeves and fight for the rights of those you support, birthwork may not be your true calling.

Advocacy work is not for the faint of heart. Doulas often find themselves at odds with healthcare professionals, challenging ingrained misconceptions about our role, and navigating systemic barriers that hinder our clients' well-being. But standing firm in the face of adversity is what sets doula advocacy apart. If you're not prepared to challenge the status quo and face resistance head-on, the birthing room might not be the space for you.

Doulas don't just advocate for individual clients; we advocate for birthwork as a whole. This includes dismantling outdated narratives about our profession, collaborating with healthcare providers to create more inclusive birthing spaces, and actively participating in discussions that drive positive change. If you're not committed to advocating for the legitimacy and importance of doula work, perhaps it's time to reevaluate your role in the birthwork community.

In the realm of doula work, there's no room for passive observers. Advocacy isn't an optional add-on; it's the very essence of what it means to be a doula. If you're not prepared to be a fierce advocate, challenging the status quo, dismantling barriers, and championing the rights of those you support, it's time to question whether the title of doula truly aligns with your values. Birthwork demands advocates, not passive bystanders. It's time for doulas to rise to the occasion and unapologetically embrace advocacy as an inherent and non-negotiable aspect of our calling.