As I enter into apprenticeship as a student midwife, I will no longer be accepting new doula clients. This transition has been difficult as I am one of the last doulas still actively serving our corner of southeastern Kentucky. I am still accepting repeat clients, but will not be offering full coaching packages as I have in the past. While this is difficult to announce, I am certain that it’s the right choice for my and my family at this time. I am very much looking forward to the day when I can serve our community as a midwife. 

While I wish all of my clients happy and healthy birth experiences, the reality is that won't always be the case. I want to be able to offer both my clients and my community bereavement services. ​

I get it. I really do. While hiring a doula is incredibly beneficial, it's still a luxury. Unfortunately, not many insurance companies in the US cover the expense of a doula. (If you have a FSA, HSA, or HRA, you may be able to get reimbursed after you've paid for your doula services. You can read more about that here.) So, if you understand the benefit and want to tap into all that a doula offers but are already on a tight budget, how are you to afford one? 

Before we start talking about how to afford one, let's establish how much a doula typically costs. To do this, you're going to have to do a little research to determine how much a doula charges in your area as it varies greatly. Generally, if your cost of living is higher, the cost of a doula in your area will also be higher and vise versa.

Also, when comparing prices, take into account that, just like in any profession, you can expect to pay more for a person with more experience and/or training than someone who has less. A doula just starting out may have a reduce rate while they are certifying whereas the doula who has been in business for ten years and has five additional certifications is going to charge more, and rightfully so.

One great place to scope out the cost range in your area is on Doula Match. Simply enter your due date and zip code to find doulas and other birth professionals in your area. You'll be able to see their general prices listed and be able to contact them directly from the Doula Match website. 

​A doula is a non-medical professional who assists a woman during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. The word “doula” comes from the Greek and means “a woman who serves.”

​Beginnings are always so exciting, aren't they?! Perhaps that is why I'm so drawn to birth work; beginnings truly are beautiful to me. Everything is so fresh, new and I can't wait to take my first step so I can take my next. This is the birth of my passion, my business, my future.