Advanced Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Support
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Care is a specialized training program designed to equip learners with essential knowledge and practical skills to support women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. This course focuses on providing emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers, ensuring a safe, positive, and empowering birth experience.
The program is aligned with internationally recognized maternal care and workplace safety principles inspired by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards, emphasizing hygiene, safety awareness, patient dignity, and ethical care practices. Learners will gain understanding of pregnancy stages, labor support techniques, pain management strategies, newborn care basics, and effective communication with mothers and healthcare teams.
This diploma is ideal for aspiring doulas, midwifery assistants, caregivers, and individuals interested in maternal health support. Upon completion, learners will be prepared to assist during childbirth processes, provide compassionate maternity care, and support mothers confidently in hospitals, birthing centers, and home birth environments.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Care
To enroll in the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Care, learners should meet basic requirements to ensure they can understand maternal care concepts and provide safe, supportive assistance during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Work Experience (Optional): No prior experience is mandatory; however, experience in caregiving, healthcare, or maternal support is beneficial.
- Age Requirement: Applicants should be at least 18 years old due to the sensitive and professional nature of maternity care.
- Educational Background: A secondary school qualification (high school or equivalent) is recommended. Learners with certificates in Healthcare Support, Nursing Assistant, Midwifery Basics, First Aid, or Community Health will have an added advantage.
- Language Proficiency: Basic English reading and communication skills are required to understand course materials and communicate effectively with mothers and healthcare teams.
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Birth Doula and Maternity Care (3 Hours)
- Understand the role and responsibilities of a birth doula in the maternity care process.
- Learn about the scope of practice and professional boundaries for a birth doula.
- Explore the importance of emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, labour, and the postnatal period.
- Gain insight into the key qualities and skills needed to be an effective birth doula.
Pregnancy: Physical and Emotional Changes (6 Hours)
- Recognise the physical changes that occur during pregnancy and their impact on a mother’s well-being.
- Understand the emotional challenges and psychological changes mothers may experience during pregnancy.
- Learn how to provide support to expectant mothers through various pregnancy stages.
- Gain knowledge of common complications during pregnancy and how to address them in a supportive way.
Labour and Birth: Understanding the Process (4 Hours)
- Understand the stages and processes of labour and delivery, including early labour, active labour, and the birth process.
- Learn the signs of labour and when to seek medical intervention.
- Gain knowledge of various labour positions and techniques to support comfort and progress.
- Develop an understanding of the birth process from both the mother’s and baby’s perspectives.
Pain Management Techniques (5 Hours)
- Learn about different pain relief options available during childbirth, including medical and non-medical methods.
- Understand the benefits and limitations of each pain management technique.
- Gain practical skills in supporting mothers with non-pharmacological pain relief techniques such as breathing exercises, relaxation, and massage.
- Develop the ability to provide emotional support and comfort to mothers during painful labour stages.
Supporting the Birth Team (3 Hours)
- Understand the roles of various professionals in the birth team, such as midwives, obstetricians, and nurses.
- Learn how to collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for the mother.
- Develop skills to communicate and work alongside the birth team to provide holistic support.
- Understand the importance of advocating for the mother’s birth preferences while respecting the birth team’s guidance.
Postnatal Care: Supporting the New Mother (4 Hours)
- Gain knowledge of the physical and emotional changes that occur after childbirth.
- Learn how to support the new mother with postnatal recovery, including physical care and mental health.
- Understand the challenges mothers face in the early postnatal period, including managing fatigue, bonding with the baby, and adjusting to new routines.
- Learn how to provide emotional and practical support to new mothers during the postnatal stage.
Breastfeeding Support and Education (5 Hours)
- Understand the benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and the baby.
- Learn about common breastfeeding challenges and how to support mothers in overcoming them.
- Gain practical knowledge of proper latch, positioning, and techniques for successful breastfeeding.
- Develop the ability to educate and provide guidance to mothers on breastfeeding techniques and issues like sore nipples, engorgement, and low milk supply.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Care equips learners with essential knowledge and practical skills to provide safe, compassionate, and supportive care to mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. This course strengthens confidence in assisting women through one of the most important stages of life while ensuring comfort, dignity, and emotional support.
- Holistic Care Approach – Promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of mothers and infants.
- Maternity Support Skills – Learn how to provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy and labor.
- Birth Assistance Knowledge – Understand the stages of labor and effective techniques to support safe delivery.
- Newborn Care Basics – Gain essential skills in initial newborn care and postnatal support for mothers.
- Emotional Care – Develop the ability to offer reassurance, comfort, and stress management for expectant mothers.
- Communication Skills – Improve interaction with mothers, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Health & Safety Awareness – Understand hygiene, infection prevention, and safe birthing practices.
- Pain Management Techniques – Learn non-medical comfort methods and support strategies during labor.
- Professional Confidence – Build confidence in providing respectful and compassionate maternity care.
- Career Opportunities – Open pathways in doula services, maternity care, and maternal health support roles.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Birth Doula and Maternity Care is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting women through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. It is suitable for both beginners and healthcare-related professionals who want to develop practical skills in maternal and newborn care.
- Aspiring Birth Doulas – Individuals who want to begin a career in childbirth support and maternity care services.
- Healthcare Assistants – Staff working in hospitals, clinics, and maternity units who support pregnant women and new mothers.
- Midwifery Support Learners – Students or trainees interested in midwifery and maternal health assistance roles.
- Caregivers & Home Support Workers – Individuals providing care and assistance to pregnant women at home or in community settings.
- Nursing Students – Learners studying nursing or healthcare who want practical maternity care experience.
- Community Health Workers – Professionals involved in maternal and child health awareness programs.
- Family Support Caregivers – Individuals supporting pregnant family members who want professional guidance.
- Career Changers – People transitioning into maternal health, childbirth support, or caregiving professions.
