What if I want to work with a doula and cost is an issue?

Doula services may cost several hundred dollars, and many insurance policies do not cover doula care. If you would like to work with a doula and are concerned about the costs, you can:

• Check with your insurance company to see if doula services are covered. If there is no policy, you may be able to show them evidence about benefits of doula care and influence coverage for yourself and for other women in the future. If the initial response is "no," try asking to speak with someone in management or send a letter.
• Check if there are experienced doulas in your area who offer some services at no or reduced costs. Some may be willing to set up a payment schedule at a rate you can afford.
• Some doulas barter if you can provide desired services in return.
• Find out if a woman who is training to become a doula (doula trainee) can attend; many such women attend births at no or low cost to gain experience.
• Click here for a list of hospitals and communities with volunteer doula services. You can also check the hospitals and birth centers in your community to see if any have a doula program and whether you are eligible.