Understanding Factors That Influence Adolescent Mothers’ Doula Use: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this study, we examined factors that influenced doula use among adolescent mothers in a community-based childbirth education and doula program. We used a qualitative case study approach to gather perspectives from adolescent mothers and doulas through semistructured interviews, field observations, and a focus group. These women collectively revealed multiple themes related to doula use among adolescent mothers, including relationship development and barriers to doula use at the individual and structural levels. Effective training and support for doulas that serve adolescent clients can improve these mothers’ birth experiences, and program planners in the United States and other countries can use process evaluations to improve doula programs for adolescent mothers.