Can’t Afford a Doula? Budget Friendly Tips for Birth Support in Salt Lake County

“I would LOVE a doula!!! But, I really can’t afford one right now”. Maybe you’re a college student. Maybe you already have 4 kids and finances are TIGHT. Whatever it is, even if you can’t AFFORD a doula - you still DESERVE a doula.

Here are my BEST tips!

Tip #1: Volunteer Doulas Through Training Programs

Reach out to your local doula trainer and ask if any of their students would like to attend a birth (for free or very reduced) for experience.

In my area (Salt Lake County, Utah) we have SEVERAL doula training programs! And most programs REQUIRE their students to attend 3 births before certifying. Which means you get all the knowledge and none of the debt!

Look through these doula training programs and decide which one fits your vibe the best, and reach out to the instructor!

*I have NOT verified that they all would be open to volunteer/low cost births for their students*

Utah Birth Suites in Provo is run by Melissa Chappell (did you see the link?) who is a DONA certified doula trainer (guys, she’s amazing!) and hosts doula trainings SEVEN times a year, and runs her own volunteer doula program from her midwifery clients.

Bhava Birth in Orem (check it out here).

Birth Learning in Salt Lake City.

Davis County Doulas in Davis County.

And probably more that I don’t know about!

Tip #2: Train Your Partner as a Birth Coach

Train your partner to be your BIRTH partner! I do offer a Daddy Doula program that combines virtual doula services with a 4 hour birth partner training over two sessions for cheaper than an in-person doula. Other doulas and online programs are out there that have a basic 2 hour workshop that is even MORE budget friendly, if that’s what you need!

Tip #3: Sliding Scale Doulas

Ask around to see what doulas offer a sliding scale! Even doulas who look WAY out of your price range may still be an option!

Tip #4: Doula Fund on Baby Registry

Have a doula fund on your baby registry and baby shower!

I hope some of these tips help! No matter your situation, you deserve knowledgeable labor support!