How to Make a Living as a Doula: Building a Sustainable and Fulfilling Birth Business

Morag Hastings
Oct 28, 2023
3 min read

Becoming a doula is deeply meaningful work — but it’s also a professional path that can provide financial stability and personal freedom when built with care and strategy. Many new doulas wonder: Can I really make a living as a doula? The answer is yes — with the right mindset, support, and systems in place.

Here’s how to build a sustainable doula business that supports both you and the families you serve.

1. Treat Your Doula Work Like a Business

It’s easy to think of doula work as a calling (and it is!), but if you want long-term sustainability, you need to approach it like a small business. That means:

Setting fair and transparent rates that reflect your time, skill, and energy
Having written contracts and clear boundaries with clients
Tracking expenses and income for tax and growth purposes
Scheduling time off and maintaining work-life balance

You can absolutely lead with compassion and professionalism — the two go hand in hand in building trust and credibility with families.

2. Diversify Your Offerings

Many successful doulas offer more than one service. This not only increases your income potential but also keeps your work dynamic and fulfilling.

You might consider adding:

Postpartum care packages for after-birth support
Childbirth education classes or private birth prep sessions
Birth photography or keepsake documentation
Lactation or newborn care support
Pool rentals

When you blend your interests with your doula skills, your business becomes more resilient — and more reflective of you.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence

In today’s world, your online presence is your storefront. Most families will find you through Google, Instagram, or word of mouth that leads them to your website.

To help them find (and choose) you:

Create a clean, mobile-friendly website with your services, story, and contact info
Use local keywords like “Vancouver doula,” “birth doula training,” or “postpartum doula near me”
Share educational and personal posts on social media that show your values and experience
Ask happy clients for reviews and testimonials

Search engines love consistent updates, so blogging regularly helps your site rise in search rankings.

4. Network and Collaborate

You don’t have to do this work alone. Connecting with other doulas, midwives, chiropractors, pelvic floor therapists, and prenatal educators creates a web of referrals and shared clients.

Join local doula collectives, attend community birth events, or partner with other birth professionals for workshops. Collaboration not only brings you clients — it also helps you stay inspired and connected.

5. Keep Investing in Yourself

Your growth as a doula doesn’t stop after your initial training. Continuing education helps you refine your skills, expand your offerings, and stay aligned with current research and best practices.

Consider courses or workshops on:

Breastfeeding Course for Doulas
Helping clients navigate the medical system the doulas role
Intro to Birth Photography
CPR Course for Doulas

Every bit of new knowledge you gain deepens your value and strengthens your confidence.

6. Find Mentorship and Community Support

Building a business can feel isolating at first, but mentorship can make all the difference. A seasoned doula mentor can help you with pricing, contracts, marketing, and birth debriefing.

That’s why our Doula Training and Mentorship Program includes guidance on both birth skills and business building — so you graduate with the tools and confidence to make a living as a doula.

You Deserve a Sustainable Career Doing What You Love

Doulas play an essential role in supporting families and changing the culture of birth. With the right foundation — professional training, strong community, and a sustainable business plan — you can build a career that truly lasts.

If you’re ready to take the next step, join our Foundational Birth Doula Training Course and learn how to start, grow, and thrive as a working doula.