A doula, or birth worker, is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to birthing parents.
A doula, or birth worker, is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to birthing parents. This support can happen before, during, and after birth. Doulas serving Maryland Medicaid members will provide person-centered care that supports their racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity.
Doulas are non-clinical providers and do not perform the work of a nurse-midwife, nurse practitioner or doctor.
Doulas provide three kinds of services: before birth (prenatal) visits, attendance at the birth, and after birth (postpartum) visits. The prenatal/postpartum visits are often in the birthing parent’s home. In these visits, the doula and birthing parent discuss issues like:
the anatomy of labor and birth
common medical birth procedures
common comfort measures during labor and birth
mental health and self-care
communication skills and self-advocacy during medical appointments and at labor and delivery
breastfeeding benefits and techniques
community resources
after birth support for the birthing parent and baby
Doulas also attend the birth to provide emotional and physical support. This could look like:
help changing birth positions to increase comfort
help with communicating with the medical team
breathing exercises and other calming techniques
How do I know if I am eligible for doula services?
To be eligible for doula services, you must meet the following:
Be a Maryland Medicaid member
Be pregnant
Register for the Babies Born Healthy Program
For more information, please contact the
Babies Born Healthy Staff at 301-609-6826 or 301-609-6898