Summary of Atlantic Health System Maternity Doula Policy

This summary outlines the role of doulas in supporting patients during labor, delivery, and the postpartum period at Atlantic Health System facilities.

Patients can choose to have a doula as part of their support team. Doulas are trained professionals who provide non-medical emotional, physical, and informational support throughout the entire childbirth experience.

DOULAS CAN:
  • Offer comfort measures like massage and relaxation techniques.
  • Provide evidence-based information about birth.
  • Support the patient and their partner in making informed decisions.
  • Promote early breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact after birth.
  • Doulas are not to perform any medical tasks or provide medical advice. They will follow the guidance of health care professionals during emergencies.
ATLANTIC HEALTH SYSTEM:
  • Requires doulas to be certified and provide proof.
  • Is not responsible for the actions of the doula.
  • Designates a liaison in each maternity center for doula communication.
FOR PATIENTS:
  • Contact your chosen doula to arrange services and notify them of your labor.
  • The doula will provide their certification to the hospital department.
  • This policy ensures a collaborative environment where doulas can provide valuable support to patients while respecting the expertise of health care professionals.
  • The complete doula policy is available to health care providers providing maternity service at Atlantic Health System, all maternity patients, as well as any other person requested by the patient.