How to Avoid Doula Burnout: Part 2
I’ve already written about the causes of burnout in Part 1 and how lack of financial compensation from the very beginning of your career can make things SO much harder on you. As I mentioned, I believe being told to or expected to work for free is the core issue of doula burnout. Yes, there are other contributing factors, but they start with working for free. So how do we address that?
Charge your worth
I know, I know, it’s becoming so common that it’s almost a cliche… but is it a cliche for a reason?! Probably.
Charging for your time and expertise means that there’s an equal exchange between you and your client. And I’m not just talking about a financial exchange. Yes, getting paid for your time and services is a positive exchange, but it’s also an energetic and spiritual exchange. When someone pays you for your doula support, it boosts your confidence, it makes you feel good about your skills as a doula, it reinforces that you’re in the right field, it validates all the energy, money and time you committed to your training and certification!
And on the opposite end, if you aren’t compensated fairly for your services, it may bring up feelings of resentment, inadequacy, or that you're being taken advantage of. And again, let me be clear: this isn’t just about money—it’s about energy exchange. When you pour your heart and soul into supporting a client through pregnancy, birth, or postpartum, and you walk away feeling depleted instead of fulfilled, that’s a huge red flag.
So, let’s stop with the guilt around charging what you’re worth. Doula work is labor—physical, emotional, and spiritual labor. Just like any other professional, you deserve to be compensated for your time, skills, and expertise. No other career expects you to work for free just to prove you’re committed—so why should doulas?
Set Boundaries Like Your Career Depends on It (Because It Does!)
Burnout isn’t just about money; it’s about how you run your business. If you’re saying yes to every single inquiry, answering texts at all hours (even when you’re not on call), agreeing to last-minute discounts, or letting clients overstep your boundaries, you’re inviting burnout in with open arms.
Set communication boundaries. Let clients know when and how they can reach you. You are not available 24/7 unless you’re on call. If you need help with communication boundaries, schedule a call with us. We’re all about boundaries and love helping other doulas set theirs.
Stick to your contract. If you don’t have clear terms in place—like when you go on call, how many hours you’ll attend a birth, and what happens if a client needs extra support—get that in writing now.
Learn to say no. Not every client is the right fit, and that’s okay. If someone makes you feel uneasy, undervalued, or like they expect more than what you’re offering, politely decline. Yes, it’s hard to turn down money, but the right clients will find you. And they’re the ones that will value your hard work and pay you your worth. TRUST ME!
Take time off—on purpose. Schedule breaks, vacations, and actual days where you are not working, thinking about work, or checking your phone for work.
Find a Support System
Doulas give so much to others, but who is supporting you? The reality is, you cannot do this work in isolation. Finding a strong community—whether it’s fellow doulas, mentors, therapists, or just friends who understand—is essential.
Join a doula group (local or online) where you can vent, share tips, and get encouragement.
Become a member of National Baby Co - this cuts down on some of the business challenges that doulas can experience and provides mentorship and community!
Find a doula mentor who has been in the field longer than you and can offer guidance.
Consider therapy, coaching, or even business mentorship to help you stay grounded.
Prioritize Yourself Like You Prioritize Your Clients
You wouldn’t tell a postpartum client to push through exhaustion and ignore their body’s needs, so why are you doing it? Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
Sleep. I know, easier said than done. But chronic sleep deprivation will catch up with you, and fast!
Eat real meals. No, coffee is not a meal. Stock up on nourishing, easy-to-eat foods so you’re not running on empty.
Move your body. Whether it’s stretching, yoga, walking, or a full workout, your body needs care.
Have a life outside of birth work. Hobbies. Friends. Family. Joy. Make space for things that bring you happiness outside of being a doula.
Doula Work Should Give You Life, Not Drain It
Being a doula is incredible. But it’s also work. The only way to have longevity in this field is to build your career in a way that sustains you just as much as it serves your clients. That means charging your worth, setting boundaries, surrounding yourself with support, and making yourself a priority—not an afterthought.
Burnout doesn’t have to be inevitable. You can do this work long-term, love what you do, and still have a fulfilling personal life. But it starts with making choices that protect you first.
Now, go be the badass doula you are—without burning yourself out in the process.