Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find a local birth doula?

Birth doulas provide continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the laboring woman before, during, and just after childbirth. Birth doulas can assist women giving birth in hospitals, birth centers and at home.

NAPS Board recently voted to become a full spectrum doula organization. This means we are expanding our offerings from postpartum to all areas of reproductive support, including birth doulas. We are working on this organization wide shift and will soon be able to offer referrals for the full spectrum of doula support. For now, if you need to find a birth/labor doula, visit Doula Match

Why should I choose a NAPS Doula?

Answer:  When you request NAPS referrals, we will send you the names of three doulas who have indicated they are available for the dates, times, and neighborhood you need. Doulas that NAPS refers must have current liability insurance, hands-on infant CPR, and criminal background check with Washington State Patrol. NAPS offers certification but does not require it. A NAPS Doula, whether certified or not, is required to perform their services in accordance with our Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics, and Core Values and is subject to our Grievance Policy.

Is there a fee for doula referrals?

Answer: No, this is a service offered at no cost by NAPS Doulas to help connect local parents with certified postpartum doulas.  NAPS Doulas is not a nanny agency and does not profit from any referral given to parents.

What are typical postpartum doula rates?

Answer: Most postpartum doulas are self-employed and set their own rates. The majority of certified doulas in the Seattle area are in the $45 – $65 per hour range. We encourage you to contact doulas personally for rate inquiries.

I need help and support with my newborn, but I cannot afford a postpartum doula.  Do you have any options for me?

Answer: We understand that not every family can afford the postpartum support they need. There are many doulas that will provide reduced cost or sliding scale care for families in need. Please review our Financial Assistance page to find out if you qualify for low cost doula care and to access instructions for requesting a low cost postpartum doula through our email list.