Welcome to the Birth Doula Program @ The Scarborough Hospital

What is a doula?

The term “doula” comes from the Greek word meaning ‘a woman who serves’. It has come to mean a woman who provides non-medical support in labour.

In labour women need medical support from an experienced care provider and emotional support from a friend or family member, but they also need:

Reassurance, Physical comfort, Encouragement...

...from an experienced professional like a doula, who has no other medical duties to take-up her time. 

A doula is there just for you and your support people. With no shift changes, she will be with you from start to finish!  

How Does the Program Work?

Any woman who is expecting to deliver at The Scarborough Hospital (General or Birchmount locations) is eligible for enrollment in our program. Fees range from $75 to $500 depending on your household income.

You can enroll in many ways:

• Over the phone
• In-person at a scheduled appointment in your home
• At the hospital before or after the 6pm tour on Tuesday nights
• At our "Meet the Doula Nights" held once per month on a Tuesday. Click here for the schedule.

Once you are enrolled, here's how it works:

1. You will be provided with our team's contact schedule.
2. You will have 24/7 support for any questions, and for when you're in labour.
3. You will call us when you think you are in labour and then when you want us to come and be with you.
4. The doula will stay with you from start to finish of your birth and for about 1-2 hours afterwards to help with breastfeeding and early bonding.
5. You and the doula may like to schedule a visit after your birth to discuss your experience and to thank her for her wonderful support!