Taking time off as a doula can feel nearly impossible. Birth work is unpredictable, and the on-call lifestyle makes it hard to step away without feeling guilty or worried about losing clients. But time off isn’t just nice—it’s necessary to sustain your career long-term.

The key? Plan ahead, have solid backup systems, and set boundaries. Here’s how to make it happen.

1. Plan Way in Advance

If you wait until you’re burned out to schedule a break, you’ll either take time off in crisis mode or skip it altogether.

• Decide your time off at least 6+ months ahead. Treat it like any other important business decision.
• Block it off in your schedule. That means not accepting clients with due dates that overlap.
• Inform potential clients upfront. This avoids last-minute inquiries from people who didn’t plan ahead.

2. Set Up a Reliable Backup System

Your backup doula setup can make or break your ability to truly step away.

• Choose backups who align with your style. This ensures continuity of care.
• Pre-check with your backup before booking new clients. Some doulas take clients first and then scramble to find coverage later, but you avoid that stress.
• Decide on a structure. Some doulas rotate backups for special occasions (e.g., holidays), while others keep a single, go-to backup.

3. Stick to Your Boundaries (No Apologies!)

Clients will sometimes try to book you at the last minute—even when you’ve made your time off clear.

• Prepare a firm but kind response. Have an email template ready so you’re not scrambling.
• Don’t apologize. You don’t need to justify taking a break.
• Repeat clients can be tough. It’s tempting to make an exception, but staying consistent protects your well-being.

4. Offer Virtual or Limited Support (If You Want)

If you’re taking a longer break but still want to offer some level of support, consider:

• Prenatal visits without birth support. If you’re taking a month off from births, you can still offer education or planning sessions.
• Pre-recorded guidance. Things like birth planning videos or a doula bag checklist (like this one) can be valuable resources.
• Affiliate income. If you recommend books or birth tools, using an Amazon Associates account can generate passive income.

5. Automate Marketing & Client Communication

You don’t want to return from a break to an empty client calendar. Keep your business visible while you’re away:

• Schedule social media posts. Keep your audience engaged even when you’re offline.
• Use an email autoresponder. A simple “I’m currently on break, but here’s what to do next…” message keeps inquiries moving.
• Pre-book clients for your return. If you’re off in July, fill your August calendar before you step away.

6. Give Your Pipeline a Backup Plan

Emergencies happen, and potential clients might need quick answers while you’re away.

• Share your backup doula’s info in your out-of-office message. This ensures people aren’t left hanging.
• Keep potential clients informed. If someone reaches out about services, let them know when you’ll return and how they can book with you.

7. Schedule Regular Breaks to Avoid Burnout

If you wait until you’re exhausted, you’re already too late. Instead, build rest into your business model.

• Take at least one full weekend off every three months.
• Plan 1-2 full weeks off per year (not together).
• Give yourself grace—on-call work is exhausting!

Taking time off as a doula is possible without sacrificing your business. It all comes down to planning, boundaries, and automation—so when you do step away, you can actually enjoy your break.

Want help structuring your business for sustainability? Join Doula Office Hours for expert support in building a thriving, balanced practice!