A bereavement doula, sometimes interchangeably used as miscarriage doula, or stillbirth doula, is a trained professional who provides emotional and physical support to women experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, or other types of pregnancy loss.
A bereavement doula’s role is to help women work through their grief, cope with physical pain, and navigate the medical system. Bereavement doulas provide a non-judgmental presence during an emotionally charged time. This presence can provide a much needed reminder of compassion and hope in the midst of tragedy.
Doulas are there to listen, hold space, serve as a source of strength, and offer guidance through the grieving process.
What are the Benefits of Hiring a Bereavement Doula?
Hiring a bereavement doula can provide a number of benefits for women and their families. The support they provide varies every family as every case is unique and very personal. Some of these benefits include:
Emotional Support
- Provide emotional support and guidance to the woman and her partner throughout the grieving and healing process.
- Actively listen to the woman and validate her feelings and emotions.
- Help the woman and her partner cope with their grief and loss.
- Provide information and resources about grief counseling, support groups, and other forms of support.
Physical Support
- Help the woman manage her physical pain, discomfort, and recover more quickly.
- Provide comfort measures such as massage and offering heat or ice packs to ease pain.
- Help the woman understand the physical changes happening to her body during the pregnancy loss.
Practical Support
- Assist in making arrangements for the pregnancy loss, such as arranging for a loss certificate, and coordinating cremation or burial services.
- Help the woman understand her options for medical care, and provide information about different procedures.
- Help the woman and her partner communicate with healthcare providers and advocate for their needs.
- Assist with logistical tasks such as scheduling appointments and coordinating care.
Education and Information
- Provide the woman and her partner with accurate and unbiased information about what to expect during the pregnancy loss process.
- Explain medical procedures and terminology.
- Offer information about resources and support groups for women and their partners experiencing pregnancy loss.
- Provide guidance about self-care and emotional coping strategies.
- Help the woman navigate the medical system and communicate more effectively with their healthcare providers.
Postpartum Support
- Help the woman and her partner cope with the postpartum period and adjusting to life after the pregnancy loss.
- Provide resources for dealing with the impact of the pregnancy loss on family and relationships.
- Assist with referrals for additional postpartum support, such as mental health counseling or bodywork.
Difference Between a Bereavement Doula and a Death Doula
A death doula and a bereavement doula can both be important members of an end-of-life care team.
- A death doula is a trained advocate who provides physical, emotional and spiritual care for someone who is dying. They often work with hospice or palliative care teams to provide end-of-life support for the person and their family.
- A bereavement doula focuses specifically on providing support for mothers and their partners after a pregnancy loss, such as a miscarriage, stillbirth, or other diagnosis.
Limitations of a Bereavement Doula
Although a bereavement doula can be an invaluable source of support, it is important to note that there are some limitations to the services they provide. These include:
- No medical authority: A bereavement doula cannot make medical decisions or provide medical advice and should not be seen as a substitute for a doctor or other healthcare providers.
- No emotional authority: A bereavement doula cannot take away the pain of a loss or make decisions for the woman and her partner. They can only provide support and guidance, but ultimately it is up to the woman and her partner to choose how they want to move forward.
- No legal authority: A bereavement doula cannot provide legal advice or representation. If legal matters arise, the woman and her partner should consult with a lawyer.
- No guarantee of outcome: A bereavement doula can provide support, but there is no guarantee that their services will lead to a certain outcome. It is important for women and their partners to be aware of this before working with a doula.
Keep in mind that a bereavement doula cannot replace the role of family or friends in providing emotional support. Friends and family members can provide a unique form of comfort and understanding, which is an integral part of the healing process after a loss.
Bereavement Doula Training and Certification
Bereavement doulas are not typically required to have a formal education or certification. However, becoming certified can help demonstrate the doula’s commitment to the profession and demonstrate their qualifications. Many bereavement doulas receive their training through workshops or online courses.
The organizations that offer certifications for bereavement doulas include:
Miscarriage Doula Training and Certification
In order to provide support as a miscarriage doula, many individuals seek out formal training and certification. These credentials, though, are not required in order to provide support to women and their families. However, having a formal training may increase the confidence of individuals seeking out a miscarriage doula.
There are several organizations that provide training and certification for miscarriage doulas, such as:
The training and certification process for bereavement doulas and miscarriage doulas typically includes (but not limited to):
- education about the physical and emotional components of miscarriage, stillbirth, or other types of pregnancy loss
- practical skills such as communication and advocacy
- knowledge of medical procedures, terminology and resources
- understanding grief
- counseling and support services
Once certified, many bereavement doulas and miscarriage doulas also join professional organizations or networks to stay up to date on best practices and for continued education and mentorship.
Ayurvedic Doulas also help mothers during pregnancy. Find out more about them in this article.
Full Spectrum Doulas and their Support During Pregnancy Loss
Full Spectrum Doulas are trained professionals who provide support to women and their families throughout the continuum of pregnancy, birthing, postpartum and beyond. This includes providing specialized care during times of pregnancy loss.
Some Full Spectrum Doulas are trained in bereavement doula certification or miscarriage doula certification, while others receive specific training on how to best serve women through loss and grief.
Video: Bereavement Doula Help Moms Deal with Grief
The video is a news report from Denver7 discussing on how bereavement doulas help with grieving families.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to hire a bereavement doula?
The cost of hiring a bereavement doula varies, depending on the professional and their services. Many professionals offer sliding-scale payment options or pro bono services. It is important to research different professionals in your area to find the best fit for you and your family.
2. How long do bereavement doulas stay with clients?
Bereavement doulas typically provide short-term support that can range from a few days to a few weeks. It is important to discuss the timeline and expectations with your doula in advance.
3. Do bereavement doulas provide medical assistance?
No, bereavement doulas do not provide medical assistance or advice. They are not healthcare professionals and should not be seen as such. Bereavement doulas focus on providing emotional and practical support to women and families during the grieving process.
4. What is the difference between a bereavement doula and a therapist?
A bereavement doula provides emotional and practical support to women and families during the grieving process whereas a therapist offers mental health counseling. A bereavement doula can help you find resources to connect with the right therapist if needed.
Also, some doulas may have experience with therapy and be able to provide additional support in this area.
5. What other types of services do bereavement doulas provide?
Bereavement doulas may offer additional services such as helping with funeral or memorial arrangements, providing referrals to other resources, connecting families with support groups, or assisting in writing a birth plan. It is best to discuss any additional services offered by the bereavement doula prior to signing up for their services.
6. What should I look for in a bereavement doula?
When looking for a bereavement doula, it is important to find someone who is qualified and experienced in providing support through pregnancy loss. It can also be helpful to look for a doula who specializes in other areas such as fertility, childbirth or postpartum care.
It is beneficial to speak with the doula before hiring them so that you can make sure they are a good fit for you and your family.
7. How do I find a bereavement doula near me?
You can find a birth & bereavement doula through SBD Doula. Alternatively, the best way to find a bereavement doula near you is to ask your healthcare provider or search online for professionals in your area.
Many professional organizations and networks also have directories of certified professionals that can be helpful in finding the right doula for you.
8. What other resources are available after a pregnancy loss?
In addition to seeking out the support of a bereavement doula, there are many other resources available for those dealing with pregnancy loss. These include online communities, grief counseling and support groups, and bereavement hotlines.
Additionally, many hospitals and clinics offer specialized care for individuals who have experienced loss. It is important to research your options and find the best fit for you and your family.
Have you heard about Fertility Doulas? Read about them here.
Final Thoughts
The role of a bereavement doula is to provide compassionate support to women and their partners who are experiencing a pregnancy loss. By offering guidance, practical support, and understanding, a bereavement doula can help families navigate the challenging grieving process and find a path towards healing and hope.