TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at expanding public knowledge about doula services and their role in supporting maternal health. Senate Bill No. 3091, sponsored by Senator M. Teresa Ruiz (D-Essex, Hudson) and Senator Angela V. McKnight (D-Hudson), would require the Department of Human Services (DHS), in coordination with the Department of Health, to establish a public awareness campaign on doulas.
The campaign would provide information about the role doulas play in supporting individuals before, during, and after pregnancy, the services they offer, and the evidence-based health benefits linked to doula care. Additionally, the campaign would highlight free or low-cost doula services available in the state.
Expanding Access to Maternal Support Services
Under the proposed bill, educational materials about doula services would be developed in the ten most commonly spoken languages in New Jersey to ensure accessibility across diverse communities. These materials would be distributed both electronically and in print through local health agencies, healthcare providers, reproductive health service providers, WIC clinics, pharmacies, and community-based organizations.
The legislation defines reproductive health service providers as hospitals, clinics, physician offices, or other facilities that provide services related to pregnancy and reproductive health, including employees, volunteers, and contractors.
Addressing Maternal Health Challenges
New Jersey has been working to improve maternal health outcomes, especially for women of color who face disproportionately high risks during pregnancy and childbirth. Doula support has been shown in numerous studies to reduce the likelihood of medical interventions during birth and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
By educating the public about the benefits of doula services, lawmakers hope to connect more individuals with non-medical, supportive care that can positively impact their birthing experiences.
Non-Medical but Vital Support
Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery but are not licensed medical professionals. They do not perform clinical procedures or offer medical advice. However, their continuous, personalized support complements medical care and has been linked to improved outcomes for both mothers and babies.
The bill does not propose any certification or licensing requirements for doulas but focuses solely on increasing public awareness and improving access to existing services.
Doulas are not classified as medical professionals and typically do not require medical certification to practice in New Jersey or most other states. Their role is non-clinical, focusing on providing physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike midwives or obstetricians, doulas do not perform medical procedures, diagnose conditions, or provide medical care.
Certification for Doulas
While doulas are not required to hold a state-issued medical license, many choose to obtain certification through private organizations to enhance their training and credibility. These certifications are voluntary and are offered by various national and international organizations, such as:
- DONA International (Doulas of North America)
- CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association)
- ICEA (International Childbirth Education Association)
Certification through these organizations often involves completing coursework on childbirth education, labor support techniques, postpartum care, breastfeeding support, and sometimes requires hands-on experience. However, these certifications are not regulated by the state and do not equate to a medical license.
New Jersey’s Approach to Doula Services
New Jersey has taken steps to increase access to doula services, recognizing their benefits in improving maternal health outcomes. In 2021, New Jersey began offering Medicaid coverage for doula services to expand access to underserved populations. However, the state does not mandate medical certification for doulas providing these services.
The proposed legislation in Senate Bill No. 3091 focuses on raising public awareness about doulas and their services, but it does not introduce licensing or certification requirements. The bill emphasizes educating the public on the role and benefits of doulas and how to access free or low-cost doula services in the state.
Doulas vs. Medical Professionals
It is important to distinguish between doulas and licensed medical professionals such as:
- Obstetricians/Gynecologists (OB/GYNs): Medical doctors specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health.
- Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs): Registered nurses with advanced training in midwifery who are licensed to provide medical care.
- Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs): Trained in out-of-hospital births and certified through national standards but not always licensed in every state.
In contrast, doulas focus on providing support but do not offer medical advice, diagnose conditions, or manage medical complications.
Conclusion
Doulas in New Jersey are not required to have medical certification or state licensure to practice. They may voluntarily pursue certification through private organizations to strengthen their expertise, but their role remains non-clinical. The state’s current efforts, such as the proposed public awareness campaign, aim to inform the public about doulas’ supportive role in maternal care, not to regulate them as healthcare providers.