Doula Certification Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Doula Certification facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The 'rebozo' technique used during labor involves: → A traditional woven cloth used to sift and support the belly
2. Which pelvic type is considered most favorable for vaginal birth? → Gynecoid
3. What is the purpose of continuing education for certified doulas? → To stay current with evidence-based practices and maintain certification
4. Which of the following is a non-pharmacological pain management technique? → TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
5. What is the primary role of a birth doula during labor? → Provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support
6. What measurement indicates the cervix is fully dilated? → 10 centimeters
7. What is effleurage in labor support? → Gentle, light stroking massage of the abdomen
8. What is Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening in pregnancy? → A test for bacteria in the vagina/rectum that can be transmitted to the baby during birth
9. What is the best response when a client's breastfeeding difficulty is beyond the doula's scope? → Refer the client to an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant)
10. What is a birth plan? → A document outlining a client's preferences for labor and birth
11. What hormone is primarily responsible for triggering uterine contractions during labor? → Oxytocin
12. What is postpartum depression (PPD)? → A clinical mood disorder persisting beyond 2 weeks postpartum
13. What is meconium in the context of labor? → The baby's first stool, which can appear in amniotic fluid
14. What is 'station' in obstetrics? → The position of the fetal presenting part relative to the ischial spines
15. Acupressure point SP6 (Spleen 6), sometimes used to stimulate labor and reduce pain, is located: → Three finger-widths above the inner ankle bone
16. What is a doula's scope of practice? → Non-clinical support: emotional, physical, and informational
17. What is vicarious trauma in doula work? → Emotional and psychological impact from witnessing clients' traumatic birth experiences
18. What is donor breast milk? → Pasteurized milk from screened donors used when a parent cannot provide sufficient milk
19. What is 'laboring down' during the second stage? → Allowing passive fetal descent before active pushing begins
20. Which position is often recommended to help rotate a posterior (occiput posterior) baby? → Hands and knees
21. What is the 'bloody show' during labor? → Pink or red-tinged mucus discharge as the cervix dilates
22. What is a backup doula? → A trained doula who covers if the primary doula is unavailable
23. What is the AAP's safe sleep recommendation for newborns? → Supine (back) sleeping on a firm, flat surface alone
24. What indicates that a breastfed baby is receiving enough milk? → Adequate wet and dirty diapers and appropriate weight gain
25. What is the let-down reflex in breastfeeding? → The release of milk from the alveoli into the milk ducts triggered by oxytocin
26. What is the typical newborn weight loss expected in the first week? → Up to 7-10% of birth weight
27. When should a doula typically arrive to provide active support during labor? → When active labor begins or per the client's birth plan
28. What is the 'fourth trimester'? → The first three months after birth during which mother and baby adjust
29. Which fetal position is considered most optimal for labor and vaginal birth? → Occiput anterior (OA)
30. What is the 'cascade of interventions' in obstetrics? → One obstetric intervention leading to the need for additional interventions