Postpartum + Lifestyle · $599
Dual-certification for whole-woman care.
Complete the training and certification requirements to earn the CMD — Certified Maternal Doula — designation. Payment options are available.
Seven-module curriculum
Education that reaches beyond the basics.
Module 1Understanding Maternal Health & the Doula’s Role
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Understanding Maternal Health & the Doula’s Role
Build a foundation in the cultural, historical, and systemic factors that influence childbirth.
- —Cultural and historical perspectives on childbirth and maternal health disparities
- —Common maternal health issues and their impact on pregnancy outcomes
- —The doula’s emotional, physical, and informational role
- —Communication, cultural competency, and advocacy in doula practice
Module 2Understanding Chronic Diseases in Pregnancy
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Understanding Chronic Diseases in Pregnancy
Understand the pathology of obesity, heart-health issues, and diabetes during pregnancy.
- —Top causes of pregnancy complications and common chronic conditions
- —Physiological changes and complications associated with chronic disease
- —Risk factors, screening methods, and diagnostic criteria
- —Strategies for managing and mitigating risk during pregnancy
Module 3Practical Applications & Resources for Birthworkers
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Practical Applications & Resources for Birthworkers
Use evidence-based resources and holistic strategies to support positive change.
- —Using the built and natural environment to improve health
- —Holistic strategies for improving birth outcomes
- —Meal planning and recipe ideas for clients with chronic diseases
- —Finding and applying evidence-based resources for ongoing support
Module 4Motivational Counseling Techniques for Birthworkers
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Motivational Counseling Techniques for Birthworkers
Hone communication and behavior-change skills that empower pregnant women with chronic disease.
- —Counseling skills and social determinants of health
- —Behavior-change theories and models
- —Practical exercises and role-playing scenarios
- —Addressing resistance, ambivalence, and barriers to change
Module 5Postpartum Maternal Care
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Postpartum Maternal Care
Learn the practical, whole-person care a postpartum doula provides to the mother.
- —Mothering the mother
- —Womb healing and herbal preparations
- —Traditional belly binding
- —Identifying postpartum depression and other concerns
- —How-to education for new parents
Module 6Infant & Preemie Care
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Infant & Preemie Care
Develop the infant-care knowledge needed to support parents confidently in their home.
- —Newborn appearance and characteristics
- —Breastfeeding and infant nutrition
- —Sleep and sleep conditioning
- —Milestones and development
- —Practical parental support
Module 7The Business of Being a Doula
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The Business of Being a Doula
Set up your business, distinguish your services, and begin building paid work.
- —Business startup and costs
- —Positioning your work to stand apart
- —Legal considerations and contracts
- —Marketing and social media
- —Networking to grow your practice
Fall 2026 cohort
Meet live on Sundays.
Every session begins at 10:00 AM CST. Join guided instruction, conversation, assignments, and demonstrations, with in-person experiences noted in the schedule. Choose a highlighted date to preview each day.
October 2026
November 2026
Day 1
Sunday, October 4, 2026
Module 1 · Understanding Maternal Health & the Doula’s Role
10:00 AM–2:30 PM CST · Lunch at The Manor
40 hours
Hands-on maternal and newborn care completes your CMD certification.
Virtual Sunday instruction is paired with supervised practical experience. Choose the route that fits your life:
- 01Complete your hours in person at the MILK Institute retreat.
- 02Arrange your practical experience in Houston.
- 03Submit verified care hours completed in your own community.
MILK reviews and approves verified-hour documentation before the CMD — Certified Maternal Doula — designation is awarded.
$599 · Payment options available