Code
of Ethics
Doula
Association of Ireland members:- Are
accountable for their own practice in whatever environment they choose to work.
In all circumstances the safety and welfare of the mother and baby must be of
primary importance.
- Offer
emotional, educational and physical support, but not advice, to the mother and/or
parents, exploring with them their various options based on current medical evidence,
enabling them to make their own decisions about the appropriate course of action,
and then supporting them in their decisions.
- Do
not advocate or speak for the parents in any situation - it is our philosophy
that parents are more empowered and have better birth experiences when they adopt
a healthy curiosity to procedures or tests that are offered to them. We will help
the parents increase their confidence levels when working with medical personnel
but will not act for the parents.
- Work
to maintain the highest level of care and support possible, all the time striving
to be sensitive, nurturing, empathic, non-judgmental, knowledge-based, flexible,
reliable, well-organized, practical and protective of the mother's/family's environment.
- Do
not perform clinical or medical tasks, diagnose medical conditions or give medical
advice.
- Will explain medical procedures.
- Does not make decisions
for the parents.
- Will refer
clients to other appropriate resources/professionals should the client have needs
beyond the scope of their doula role.
- Will
accurately represent their education and experience and will not mislead other
doulas, clients or other birth professionals (i.e. websites, leaflets, emails,
interviews, etc.) as to their level of doula education or experience.
- Will
be honest and show integrity and respect at all times towards their clients, doula
colleagues and the other professionals with whom they may be working alongside.
- Will not discuss personal
and confidential information which has been disclosed to them by their clients
in the course of their doula work with them, without the express permission of
those clients.
- Will keep
records of their activities e.g. of births attended and/or postnatal support roles.
- Are advised to have a contract
(preferably written) with their clients.
- Will
strive to develop and maintain positive work relationships within the doula and
birthing community.
- Will
continue to enhance their skills and education by attending courses, workshops
and lectures as they become available.
- Will
keep current on best available research.
