The journey of becoming a doula is one filled with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to supporting others. For military spouses, this path can also offer something uniquely empowering: a portable, meaningful career that supports not just birthing people, but the entire military community. Even better? You may be eligible to have your doula training fully funded through MyCAA.
What Is a Military Doula?
A military doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support to families during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period—with a special focus on the needs of military families. These families face unique circumstances, from frequent moves and deployments to navigating TRICARE and limited local support systems. Military doulas can understand these challenges and are equipped to offer culturally sensitive, informed care.
Whether it's supporting a pregnant military spouse or member while their partner is deployed, on active duty or being the one consistent presence during a time of transition, military doulas play a powerful role in helping families feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Why Military Spouses Are Perfect for the Role
Military spouses are uniquely positioned to serve in this role. You've lived the lifestyle, you know the challenges, and you understand the support gaps that exist within the community. Becoming a doula allows you to use your lived experience to make a difference—while also building a career that moves with you wherever the military sends you.
How MyCAA Can Help
The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) is a Department of Defense program that offers up to $4,000 in tuition assistance to eligible military spouses pursuing licenses, certifications, or associate degrees in portable career fields. Becoming a certified doula falls within these guidelines, making this a golden opportunity to get trained at little to no cost to you.
To Qualify for MyCAA, You Must:
Be a spouse of an active-duty service member in pay grades E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2, or O-1 to O-2
Have completed high school or obtained a GED
Be enrolled in an approved education or training program
Note: National Guard and Reserve spouses are also eligible when the service member is on Title 10 active-duty orders.
What my training covers:
A comprehensive doula training programs cover:
Childbirth education
Comfort techniques for labor
Postpartum support
Lactation education
Trauma-informed care
Business basics and ethics
Cultural competency for military families
Starting Your Doula Career
After completing your training, you can begin working with clients in your community, if that suits your lifestyle better. Many military doulas choose to work independently, while others collaborate with agencies, hospitals, birth centers, or nonprofit organizations that serve military families.
You’ll not only be creating a career for yourself but also stepping into a role that truly impacts the lives of others.
Ready to Begin?
If you’re passionate about supporting others, interested in birth work, and looking for a flexible and portable career, becoming a military doula might be the perfect path for you. And with MyCAA available to cover your training costs, there’s no better time to get started.
Resources to Explore: