PDX Doulas was conceived in October of 2000 by five beginning doulas with a dream to serve birthing mothers at OHSU. Thanks to the dedication and heart of the OHSU Midwives and Volunteer Services, along with our doula volunteers, we served our first family in June of 2001.

We served 12 hour shifts on the weekends only and met with birthing women at the hospital. Since its inception PDX Doulas has had the privilege of providing professional doula services at no cost to 500+ birthing women and their families. We have attended high risk births, cesarean births, waterbirths, VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean), and supported grieving parents at stillbirths. We have seen improved birth outcomes that are one of the proven benefits of birth doula care.

From June 2007 – April 2009 PDX Doulas worked in collaboration with OHSU Midwifery services to expand our services and provide 24/7 on call doula care to OHSU patients. Through a generous grant by CareOregon, we were able to provide free doula services for approximately 20 births per month and also give our doulas a small stipend for their generous gift of time and talent.

In March of 2009 we completed the second of two grants and once again rejoined the Volunteer Services Department. We are available around the clock 3 days a week from Saturday 8:00 AM – Monday 8:00 PM. PDX Doulas has thrived in partnership with OHSU and we are honored to continue serving the Portland Community!

Birth Blessings!

PDX Doulas

Training

Our doulas receive additional PDX Doulas training specific to professionalism

Required to be a certified or certifying doula

Multiple screenings including a background check, multiple interviews and trainings on client confidentiality and respecting diversity

Received floor orientation specific to OHSU hospital