As a mother of six, I understand the importance of having a doula who is solely focused on advocating for me during childbirth, free from fear of repercussions from medical providers or nursing boards. However, the Ohio Board of Nursing threatens this autonomy by seeking to regulate doula certification under the jurisdiction of the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN).

We are deeply troubled by the introduction of regulation of doulas in Ohio, a direct threat to the rights of women and the sacredness of childbirth. This bill seeks to place doula certification under the control of the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN), jeopardizing the autonomy and well-being of pregnant individuals.

These regulations are a clear violation of women's autonomy and the fundamental principles of empowerment in childbirth. By subjecting doulas to OBN oversight, this legislation undermines the crucial support doulas offer to birthing women, depriving them of the choice and control they deserve during one of life's most intimate experiences.

Moreover, this bill dismisses the expertise and autonomy of doulas by excluding them from decision-making processes. It grants excessive authority to the OBN, disregarding the voices and experiences of those who understand the unique needs of expecting women best: women.

The attempt by the Ohio Board of Nursing (OBN) and the state of Ohio to regulate the term "Certified Doula" is not only inappropriate but also unnecessary. Doulas play a vital role in providing nurturing, empathetic support to expectant individuals, drawing upon their training process, personal experiences, and knowledge from related fields to offer compassionate care during childbirth. By seeking to control the term "Certified Doula," the OBN and Ohio state authorities are disregarding the diverse backgrounds and expertise of doulas, potentially undermining their autonomy and recognition within the birthing community.

 

Furthermore, the proposition to impose fines on doulas for using the term "Certified Doula" is not only unjust but also punitive. Doulas undergo a meaningful training process and draw upon their personal experiences and expertise to offer holistic support to expectant individuals and their families. Punishing doulas for accurately representing their qualifications not only restricts their ability to provide compassionate care but also threatens the accessibility of doula services for birthing women

 

We strongly oppose any legislation that seeks to restrict or penalize doulas for using the term "Certified Doula." Instead, we demand that the OBN and the state of Ohio remove such provisions from the legislation and recognize the diverse expertise and valuable contributions of doulas within the birthing community. Doulas deserve the right to authentically represent their qualifications and provide nurturing support to expectant individuals without fear of unnecessary regulation or punishment.

Furthermore, while acknowledging the desire for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, we advocate for an alternative approach. Rather than mandating DEI training as a requirement, we propose that it be offered as an optional component for doula certification. This approach respects the diverse backgrounds and circumstances of doulas, allowing them the choice to pursue DEI training based on their individual preferences and needs. By making DEI training an option rather than a requirement, doulas can tailor their certification process to align with their professional development goals while ensuring inclusivity within the doula community.

We demand policymakers to reconsider and engage in meaningful dialogue with the doula community. Any regulatory framework must prioritize inclusivity, transparency, and respect for the diverse needs and preferences of women and their families during childbirth.

We urge that these regulations only affect doulas interested in Medicaid programs, not all doulas across Ohio. Doulas are not medical providers; we are advocates for our clients. Excessive regulation threatens our ability to provide the unwavering support and advocacy our clients need and deserve.

The proposed regulation could undermine our ability to advocate effectively for our clients, creating unnecessary fear and scrutiny from OBN and medical boards. Therefore, the bill should be amended to apply only to doulas interested in Medicaid programs. Additionally, certified doulas should not be required to register with OBN unless they choose to do so.

It is essential that the Doula Advisory Board has significant influence over regulations affecting our profession, and include a majority of active doulas in the membership of the advisory board. Women-centered advocacy and support during childbirth are best understood by those within our community.

Join us in opposing this oppressive legislation and protecting women's autonomy. Sign this petition to ensure that mothers, like myself, have access to the unwavering support they need during childbirth.

Together, we can safeguard the rights of women and preserve the sacred bond between birthing individuals and their chosen support teams.

In solidarity,

Angel Coleman,  the Ohio Birth Worker Community, and Women's Maternal Health Advocates