Are you interested in learning about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support? Do you want to become a part of a community that supports birthing people and folks capable of conceiving during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be considering enrolling in a full spectrum birthwork training. However, if you're not a doula or don’t plan to be one, you may be wondering if you're eligible to enroll. Well, let’s talk about it…

In short? Absolutely, YES!

Full spectrum birthwork training is an inclusive term that encompasses various roles that support people capable of pregnancy during conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. These roles include doulas, midwives, nurses, lactation consultants, childbirth educators, and many others. The purpose of full spectrum birthwork training is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the conception, pregnancy, birthing and postpartum process and the different ways in which birthing folk can be supported during this time.

Full spectrum trainings must also address the birthing experience of different folks depending on their identities, privileges and marginalizations. When we talk about birthwork, it's important to recognize the historical context in which it exists. Reproductive rights have been a long-fought battle for birthing folk, especially those from marginalized communities. The right to choose when and how to have a child has been a fundamental struggle for our collective liberation. However, there are still many barriers to reproductive justice, including lack of access to healthcare, limited education, and systemic racism.

You can enroll in a full spectrum birthwork training
even if you're not a doula and don’t plan to be one.

In addition, it's important to recognize that birthwork intersects with disability justice, social justice, and other movements for equity. Disabled birthing folks, for example, may face unique challenges during pregnancy and childbirth, and may need support from birthworkers who are well-versed in disability rights and accommodations. Similarly, people from Black and communities of color face a range of challenges related to institutional racism, implicit bias, and lack of access to resources. Birthworkers who are committed to social justice and equity can play an important role in supporting these communities and uplifting their advocating for their rights.

Contextualizing birthwork within the broader context of reproductive rights, disability justice, and social justice is crucial for understanding its importance and impact. By recognizing the historical struggles for reproductive justice and the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities, birthworkers can be better equipped to support and advocate for birthing people during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. By committing to intersectional, inclusive, and equitable practices, birthworkers can help to create a more just and compassionate world for all birthing people.

Full spectrum birthwork trainings cover a wide range of topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support, and are open to anyone who is interested in learning about them. Some trainings may have prerequisites or recommended experience, but many are open to beginners. It's always a good idea to research and choose a training that aligns with your goals and interests.

Enrolling in a full spectrum birthwork training
can be beneficial in many ways.

Firstly, it can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the birthing process and the different ways in which birthing folk can be supported during this time. This knowledge can be useful for anyone who wants to support birthing people during pregnancy and childbirth, regardless of their profession.

Secondly, it can be a great way to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about supporting birthing people during this critical time in their lives.

Finally, it can be a great way to advance your career if you're interested in becoming a doula, midwife, nurse, lactation counselor, therapist, ob-gyn or any other role that supports birthing people during pregnancy and childbirth.

So how do you choose a full spectrum
birthwork training that’s right for you?

Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Certification:
What are your plans or intentions in taking this training? If accreditation or certification is necessary for you to be able to volunteer at your local hospital, or for your training to count towards your continuing education hours, it may be helpful to confirm that the training you’re selecting offers that. If the training you’re exploring does not, consider reaching out to them to learn more about why not.

Curriculum:
Look at the curriculum to make sure it covers the topics you're interested in learning about. Some trainings may focus more on the medical aspects of childbirth, while others may focus more on emotional support.

Cost and Location:
Consider the cost of the training and its location. Some trainings may be more expensive and/or accessible than others, and you may need to factor in travel and lodging costs if the training isn't local. Virtual trainings can often be more accessible and allow for more space and time to spend on each topic.

Instructors:
Check the qualifications of the instructors to ensure that they have the necessary expertise and experience to teach the course. Who are the teachers? Are folks speaking from their lived experience?

Reviews and Recommendations:
Read reviews and ask for recommendations from others who have taken the training. Listen to what folks who’ve taken the training say (and don’t say 😂). This can give you a better sense of what to expect and help you make an informed decision.

All that to say, YES. Yes, you can!

You don't have to be a doula to enroll in or benefit from a full spectrum birthwork training. In fact, many trainings are open to anyone who is interested in learning about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support. Some trainings may have prerequisites or recommendations so check those out before you sign up. By choosing the right training, you can gain valuable knowledge and skills and connect with a supportive community. Remember to do your research and choose the training that best aligns with your goals and interests.

Enrolling in a full spectrum birthwork training can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the birthing process, connect you with a community of like-minded individuals, and advance your career if you're interested in becoming a doula or any other role that supports birthing people during pregnancy and childbirth.

Want to get started in the birthwork basics? Not ready to commit to advanced full spectrum birthwork just yet? We got you! Consider enrolling in Moonstone: Labor & Birth Doula Training or Sunstone: Postpartum Doula Training to get you started on the foundations of birthwork!

Learn more about ALL the courses we offer here.