Labor inductions are becoming more common, and if you’re noticing that your clients’ births are looking less like the spontaneous ones you envisioned when you started out, you’re not alone. Many doulas—whether they’re just starting or have been at this for years—are finding that the realities of induction are reshaping how we show up for our clients and how we take care of ourselves in the process.

I recently sent out a survey to doulas about what they are seeing in their area. 79% of doulas said that the induction rates were going up in their practices. And in response, 72% had changed their contracts in some way.

Let’s break this down into simple steps you can take to adjust your practice, protect your energy, and still provide the stellar support your clients expect.

Set Clear Expectations

We’ve all been there—called in too early, only to find ourselves camped out at the hospital for hours (or days). It’s exhausting, and it doesn’t help anyone. Setting boundaries about when you’ll physically show up and when you’ll be available by phone or text can make all the difference.

You might say something like, “I’ll join you when labor becomes active or when Pitocin starts—whichever comes first. Until then, I’m just a call away.” Adding this to your contract or discussing it in a prenatal session can save you a lot of wear and tear.

Front-Load Education

Clients often don’t know what an induction really involves until they’re in the thick of it. That’s where you come in. Sharing evidence-based info about inductions during your prenatal sessions not only builds trust but also gives them tools to make confident decisions.

Try creating a simple handout or hosting an extra induction planning meeting. Walk through things like the Bishop score, common medications, and coping strategies. The more they know, the less likely they’ll feel overwhelmed—or call you in too early.

Protect Your Energy

Long inductions can take a toll, so it’s important to protect your ability to stay present and focused when your clients need you most. Here are a few ways doulas are doing that:

• Use Backups Strategically: Don’t hesitate to call in a trusted backup or take a planned break if labor stalls.
• Step Away When Needed: Make it clear that you may go home or rest during slower phases, like after a Foley bulb placement.
• Hourly Fees After a Set Time: Consider adding an hourly rate after 12 hours of support to ensure you’re compensated fairly.

You’re human, and you need breaks to show up as your best self.

Update Your Contracts and Pricing

If inductions are becoming the norm in your area, it might be time to revisit your pricing and package structure. Adding clauses about how and when you’ll attend inductions—or offering tiered packages with virtual support options—can help ensure that your work remains sustainable.

For instance, you could say, “My base package includes 12 hours of in-person labor support. After that, there’s an hourly fee, which ensures I can provide the best care without burnout.”

Advocate, Educate, Repeat

Some clients might not realize that inductions often come with risks or alternatives. By giving them evidence-based info and helping them ask the right questions, you’re not just supporting them—you’re empowering them to take the lead in their birth experience.

Be upfront about trends like elective 39-week inductions. “Some providers recommend inductions at 39 weeks as a blanket policy. Let’s talk about whether that makes sense for you.” That kind of guidance can be a game-changer.

Keep It Sustainable

At the end of the day, your work is about balance. Supporting your clients through inductions doesn’t mean sacrificing your own health and well-being. With clear boundaries, better education, and a plan for those marathon labors, you can continue to be the rock your clients need while staying grounded in your practice.

If this feels like an area where you’d like more guidance, let’s work on it together. I’m hosting a class this winter to help doulas adjust their practices to match the realities of inductions. Whether you’re brand-new or have years under your belt, there’s always room to refine how you show up—for your clients and for yourself.