In short
- Birth doula packages usually cost between £800 and £2,500.
- Postnatal doulas usually charge £15 to £30 an hour.
- Many doulas offer payment plans, so it's always worth asking.
Prices vary around the UK, so treat these figures as a guide. Doulas on BumpBuddy publish their prices up front, so you'll always know where you stand.
Typical prices at a glance
| Typical cost | How you pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Birth doula | £800 to £2,500 | One package price |
| Postnatal doula | £15 to £30 an hour | By the hour, sometimes with a minimum number of hours |
| Private midwife | £4,000 to £8,000 | Full package, or single visits from £70 to £120 |
We've included private midwives so you can compare. Not sure of the difference?
What a birth doula package includes
For a typical birth doula package you usually get
- two to four antenatal visits to get to know each other and plan
- unlimited phone and message support during pregnancy
- an on-call period, usually from 38 weeks until your baby arrives
- support throughout your labour and birth, however long it takes
- one or two postnatal visits afterwards
Postnatal doula support
Postnatal doulas usually charge by the hour. They help you recover, support feeding, look after the baby while you sleep and generally hold the fort. Some families book a few hours a week. Others book much more support.
What affects the price
Experience. Doulas near the end of their training often charge less while they gain experience. They're mentored while they do it.
Where you live. Prices tend to be higher in big cities, especially London.
What's included. More visits, a longer on-call period or extra postnatal support will cost more.
Travel. Some doulas add a travel charge if you live outside their usual area.
The money details worth checking
Deposits. Most doulas ask for a deposit to secure your booking. Check how much and whether it's refundable.
Payment plans. Many doulas let you spread the cost over several months. Don't be shy about asking.
The on-call window. Ask what happens if your baby arrives before the on-call period starts or well after your due date. A good contract covers both.
Backup arrangements. Ask who steps in if your doula is ill or at another birth. Established doulas have trusted backups and will explain how it works.
If the prices feel out of reach, don't give up straight away. Doulas near the end of their training often charge much less while they gain experience, and they're mentored while they do it. Some doula organisations also run access funds that help families on low incomes. It's always worth asking.
Who this guide isn't for. If you're looking for medical advice about your pregnancy, speak to your midwife or GP. This guide is about choosing support, not about clinical decisions.