Postpartum + Lifestyle · $599

Dual-certification for whole-woman care.

More than postpartum care: learn to support the whole mother, her recovery, nourishment, rest, relationships, and home, and earn the CMD, the Certified Maternal Doula designation. Payment options are available.

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Seven-module curriculum

Education that reaches beyond the basics.

Module 1

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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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

G. Harvey leading an infant CPR demonstration — Practical confidence in newborn care.

MILK students practicing postpartum belly binding — Traditional care taught through guided 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

SuMoTuWeThFrSa

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

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