UF Health’s Doula Friendly® Designation
As a Doula Friendly® hospital, UF Health supports the inclusion of doulas in pregnancy care. Though UF Health does not provide doula care, we provide access for your doula as a valued member of your pregnancy care team. Through education, physical comfort measures, advocacy, and support, doulas may help decrease chances of primary cesarean, shorten labor, improve the overall birth experience, and facilitate breastfeeding success.
Having the Doula Friendly® designation creates an environment where doulas and healthcare providers collaborate, offering the best possible care for patients.
How does my doula attain access?
UF Health welcomes doulas as a valuable part of the care team. We are excited to be a Doula Friendly® Designated hospital. Being affiliated with a DFI hospital:
- Provides an environment that understands and values the role of a doula
- Ensures you have access to your client throughout UF Health Facilities
- Acknowledges the value of all team members and sets the standard for respectful care
- Encourages opportunities to connect with staff and providers in various settings
Benefits of a Doula Friendly® Hospital
Doulas are trained professionals who provide continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to expecting parents before, during, and after childbirth, fostering a positive birth experience.
How a doula works for you:
- Expert guidance during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, and the early postpartum period
- Information and resources for every stage of the pregnancy, labor and delivery, feeding support, and early postpartum
- Partner education and support to increase your partner’s confidence during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the early postpartum period
- Physical support including:
- Suggestions for birthing positions to support comfort during labor
- Knowledge of how to use labor tools in your birthing area
- Relaxation techniques and methods for pain relief and stress
How to find a doula
Though UF Health does not provide or employ doulas, we will help patients ensure their doula has access when visiting our facilities. To find a doula in your area you can check out the following resources:
- The Doula Network - Medicaid only
- Ask your provider for resources in your area
- Go online to search for doulas in your area
Paying for a doula
- Insurance, check with your insurance provider
- The Doula Network (Medicaid Only)
- Health Savings or Flex Spending Accounts
- Private pay