03/18/2026
❓❓Did you know doulas are allowed in the OR room? ❓❓
💯As of July 2025, Va state law says doulas can be in the OR room IN ADDITION to your partner.
Despite hospital policies allowing only one person, this law overrules that. Of course it is up to the provider to give discretion on allowing the doula, with cause.
💕Having your trusted doula in the room can help you feel more comfortable during the process by explaining who and what is going on, as well as assisting with immediate skin to skin and initiating breastfeeding.
⭐️In the cases where I have been in the OR with clients, I explained who and what was around, the process, and updating on what is going on with baby if immediate skin to skin is not possible.
“New Virginia law (SB1384/§ 32.1-137.011) guarantees birthing people the right to have a doula present in addition to a support person during labor and childbirth, including C-sections, unless a doctor excludes them with informed consent. While hospitals can still set safety protocols, this law strengthens access for continuous doula support, even in operating rooms.”
https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title32.1/chapter5/section32.1-137.011/ #:~:text=develop%20policies%20that:-,1.,7.
Always, if you have questions, feel free to message me 😊
Table of Contents » Title 32.1. Health » Chapter 5. Regulation of Medical Care Facilities and Services » Article 1. Hospital and Nursing Home Licensure and Inspection » § 32.1-137.011. Childbirth; postpartum process; doulas