How the Asian Doula Alliance (ADA) is Reshaping the Postpartum Doula Industry

In recent years, the postpartum doula industry, particularly within Asian communities in the United States, has faced significant challenges. Many so-called “Asian doulas” or 月嫂 (yue sao) have gained a notorious reputation for unethical practices and unprofessional behavior. These issues have tarnished the industry’s image and have left many families feeling distrustful and vulnerable. The Asian Doula Alliance (ADA) was established to change this narrative, setting a new standard of care and professionalism in the industry.

The Problem: A Broken System

It's no secret that some Asian doulas have exploited the trust of new mothers and their families. These unethical practitioners charge exorbitant fees, often flaunting fake Chinese certifications and photoshopped evidence of their supposed experience. After receiving a deposit, they frequently fail to honor their contracts, abandoning clients without notice. Even more disturbingly, some have been accused of feeding sedatives to infants during their care—an appalling breach of trust and safety.

Beyond these ethical concerns, there is a pervasive lack of service spirit among many of these doulas. Stories abound of doulas who disregard the comfort and well-being of mothers, such as refusing to allow air conditioning in the sweltering summer months, or imposing outdated and harmful childcare practices. For example, some insist on sunbathing infants—an approach not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics—and engage in moral coercion of mothers, pressuring them to adhere to misguided and non-scientific parenting methods.

The ADA Vision: Setting a New Standard

The Asian Doula Alliance was founded to disrupt this broken system and restore integrity and trust to the postpartum care industry. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, ADA is committed to supporting and educating Asian doulas, ensuring they meet the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and scientific knowledge.

1. Rigorous Certification and Training:
   ADA offers a certified training program that goes beyond traditional practices, incorporating evidence-based Western postpartum care methods. Our doulas are not only trained in culturally relevant practices but are also educated on the latest scientific guidelines, ensuring that the care they provide is both respectful and safe.

2. Ethical Standards and Accountability:
   We enforce strict ethical guidelines for all certified doulas. This includes transparency in qualifications, adherence to contracts, and a commitment to the highest standards of care. ADA-certified doulas are held accountable for their actions, and any breach of these standards results in immediate consequences, including the revocation of certification.

3. Cultural Sensitivity with Scientific Integrity:
   While ADA respects and preserves valuable traditional practices, we are equally committed to integrating modern scientific knowledge into our care methods. This balance ensures that our doulas provide culturally sensitive support that is also in line with contemporary health and safety standards.

4. Empowering Families with Knowledge:
   ADA not only trains doulas but also educates families. We believe that informed parents are empowered parents. By providing resources and education, we help families make the best decisions for their postpartum care, reducing the likelihood of falling victim to unethical practices.

5. Community and Support:
   ADA creates a supportive network for Asian doulas, particularly those who do not speak English. This community provides ongoing education, peer support, and a platform to share best practices. By fostering this sense of community, we help doulas continuously improve their skills and stay updated on the latest developments in postpartum care.

A New Era for Postpartum Care

The Asian Doula Alliance is not just about improving the standards of care; it’s about transforming the entire industry. By setting new benchmarks for professionalism, ethical behavior, and scientific knowledge, ADA is leading the way to a future where families can trust their postpartum doulas to provide the best possible care.

In a landscape previously marred by unethical practices and outdated methods, ADA’s mission is clear: to reshape the postpartum doula industry into one that is reliable, ethical, and grounded in both cultural respect and scientific integrity. Through our efforts, we are not only protecting the well-being of mothers and infants but also restoring the honor and trust that should define this vital profession.