Abortion and procedure doula training

On March 24, 2019, students from Penn NRSH attended an Abortion Doula Training at PEACE: Family Planning and Pregnancy Loss Services at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. A registered nurse from the PEACE clinic reached out to our campus chapter with the idea to start an on-call doula service for patients, and one of our chapter co-leaders worked with her to plan and execute the training.

At the training, our group learned about the procedures and exams performed at PEACE, including gynecological examinations, IUD insertions/removals, Nexplanon insertions/removals, dilator insertions, and uterine evacuation. We were trained with the skills to be able to provide emotional support to patients during procedures and exams. The information presented was based in a trauma-informed approach and included practicing scripts for describing procedures, relaxation techniques, reflecting on first-hand patient experiences, and performing emotional needs assessments. Now trained Procedure Doulas, we are equipped with non-pharmacological coping strategies and methods to provide emotional support and comfort measures for patients at PEACE! Students will take at least one 4-hour shift (either morning or evening clinic session) per month.

Written by Jess N., accelerated bachelors of science in nursing student ’2019