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About Birth it Forward & Certification
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All About Doulas
In this section we will discuss the different types of doulas, their roles, and how to learn more.
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*Birth Doulas
In this section, you will learn the aspects of being a birth doula. We will discuss how to do natal visits, go through advocacy, comfort measures and much more.
In all the sections, there is additional material that is not necessarily required but will be most beneficial for you to review. The required videos and reading materials have an asterisk in their title.
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Childbirth Education (CBE)
You will need to complete a course in Childbirth Education.
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Standing Strong Advocacy Workshop
Welcome to Standing Strong, an Advocacy Workshop. In this session, Kristen Mason, a certified Maternal Support Practitioner and Childbirth Educator, delves into the critical issue of Practitioner Violence and the importance of personal and client advocacy.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognize Practitioner Violence and abuse.
- Learn preventive strategies and advocacy techniques.
- Understand Birth it Forward doula response policies.
- Empower birth teams to support client rights.
Kristen shares her personal journey as a survivor of Practitioner Violence and offers practical tools to advocate for respectful maternity care. Together, let’s create safe, mother-led birth spaces.
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*An Overview of Cultural Competency
This section explores the importance of diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency in fostering understanding and connection across different backgrounds. It explains the distinction between equality and equity, the value of empathy by "putting yourself in someone else’s shoes," and provides essential vocabulary for navigating discussions about diversity. Key areas covered include socioeconomic, cultural, language, religious, and sexual orientation diversity, offering insights to create more inclusive and respectful communities.
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Social Determinates of Health
What are they and how do they affect your clients
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Comfort Measures for Labor and Birth
In this section, students will explore a variety of supportive techniques to enhance comfort and promote relaxation during labor. Topics include the use of birth balls to encourage optimal fetal positioning, effective labor positions to reduce pain and aid progression, and the importance of hydration and light snacks to sustain energy. Additionally, students will learn about the benefits of mindfulness practices, such as meditation and focused breathing, to create a calm and empowering birth experience. This section equips students with practical tools to support their clients holistically throughout the labor process.
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Cesarean Basics for Doulas
Learn the essentials of cesarean births with guest speaker Janice Ingram in this video tailored for doulas. Discover the history of the surgery, what happens during the procedure, and how to support clients with basic post-surgery care and recovery tips.
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NICU Basics with a NICU Nurse: Jasmine Barr, RN
In this video, we explore the basics of the NICU with guest speaker Jasmine Braun, a NICU RN, including the equipment families may encounter, the milestones babies must reach to graduate, and how doulas can help prepare families for a NICU stay. Whether you’re a doula or a parent, this video provides essential insights for navigating the NICU experience.
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Postpartum Basics After Birth
Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible journey, but the postpartum period comes with its own challenges and needs.
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Doula Natals Checklists
We are going to learn what do during prenatal and perinatal doula visits.
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Basics of Doula Business
Learn how to start and grow a successful doula business! In this video, we cover essential tips, strategies, and insights for providing compassionate care while building a thriving career. Perfect for aspiring and experienced doulas alike!
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Beating Burnout – Secondary Trauma and Compassion Fatigue with Moriah Barr, LMFTA
In this video, we explore with guest speaker Moriah Barr on how to beat burnout and maintain mental health while working in a demanding, high-stress job. We discuss effective self-care strategies, ways to overcome compassion fatigue, and practical tips to protect your mental well-being so you can continue to do what you love without feeling overwhelmed.
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Get Your NPI Number
You need an NPI number to be able to work with Medicaid.
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HIPPA Training
You need to have your HIPPA training to complete this certification.
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CPR and First Aide Certification
You need to have your CPR and First Aide Cert to complete this certification.
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Food Handler Training
You need to have a Food Handler Cert to complete this certification.
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Reading Assignments
You need to read 3 books and do reviews on them.
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Birth Attendance
You will need to attend 3 births to complete your certification.
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Resource List
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Postpartum Doulas
In this section you will learn the basics of being a postpartum doula, including newborn care, how to care for the mother and watching for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
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*Mother, Newborn Care and PMAD’s for Doulas
Discover essential insights on Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) tailored for doulas. Learn to recognize symptoms, provide compassionate support, and connect clients to resources for maternal mental health. Learn how best to care for a newborn as well.
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*Breastfeeding for Doulas
Learn essential breastfeeding tips for doulas to support families, including preparation during pregnancy, benefits for baby and mom, proper latch techniques, managing challenges, and more. Perfect for doulas and new parents alike!
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Final Knowledge Check
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Additional Helpful Education not Required for Certification
In this section you'll find classes on additional information we've found helpful over the years but do not specifically affect certification. They are not required to complete your certification.
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Additional Training Resources
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About Lesson
The Birth It Forward Birth and Postpartum Certification equips aspiring professionals with the skills and knowledge to support families through the transformative stages of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. This comprehensive program offers a balance of evidence-based education, practical techniques, and empathetic care strategies to prepare you for a fulfilling career.
What’s Included in the Certification:
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Core Foundations:
Explore the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of pregnancy, labor, and early parenthood, emphasizing informed choice and client advocacy. -
Prenatal Support:
Learn how to guide expectant families through preparation for childbirth with tools like birth planning, relaxation techniques, and physical comfort measures. -
Labor and Delivery Practices:
Gain hands-on expertise in supporting various birth experiences, including natural, medicated, and cesarean deliveries, with a focus on providing non-judgmental care. -
Postpartum Care:
Develop skills to help families navigate the early weeks of parenthood, from newborn care and lactation support to addressing the emotional challenges of the postpartum period. -
Cultural Competency and Inclusivity:
Understand the importance of providing equitable and respectful care to diverse populations, ensuring your practice is welcoming and inclusive. -
Business Essentials:
Build a thriving career with training in client communication, marketing, and the ethical considerations of running a birth and postpartum support practice. -
Reading and Book Reports:
You are required to read three books and submit reports on each. There is a list of chosen books meant to deepen your understanding of birth and postpartum care, client advocacy, and family dynamics. You may choose which books you would like to read from the list of approved books.
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Community Resource List:
You will compile a comprehensive resource list tailored to their local area. This list will include contacts for additional client support, such as lactation consultants, mental health professionals, pediatricians, and community organizations.
To ensure our trainees are well-prepared and meet professional standards, the Birth It Forward Birth and Postpartum Certification includes mandatory training and certifications in essential areas. These additional requirements not only enhance your skills but also position you as a trusted and reliable professional in the field.
Additional Mandatory Training and Certifications:
Please note that the above certifications, training, and materials may incur additional charges, depending on the provider. This investment is essential for building a robust, professional skill set and a successful career.
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Adult and Infant CPR & First Aid Certification:
Ensure you are prepared to handle emergencies by obtaining CPR and First Aid certification. -
ServSafe Food Handler Certification:
Learn the essentials of food safety to confidently assist clients with meal preparation or nutritional support during the postpartum period. -
HIPAA Compliance Training:
Understand how to handle sensitive client information with care and in accordance with legal privacy standards. -
National Provider Identifier (NPI) Number:
Acquire an NPI number, which is essential for submitting claims for insurance reimbursement, allowing you to offer more accessible services to families.
These requirements are designed to ensure you provide holistic, well-rounded care while also meeting the highest standards of professionalism and client trust. This certification is ideal for anyone passionate about empowering families during a pivotal life stage, combining heart-centered care with professional excellence.