The Experience of Compassion for Birth Doulas in Hospital-Based Births: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study

Maternal health-care provider burnout is prevalent, resulting in increased absenteeism, depersonalization, and reduced sense of efficacy. Compassion may mitigate the adverse effects of burnout for health-care providers, but the experience of compassion for birth doulas has not been examined. Using constructivist grounded theory methods, we addressed the research question: How do certified birth doulas experience compassion in hospital-based births? We interviewed a purposive sample of 18 certified birth doulas. Data analysis revealed that doulas experience compassion in three developmental domains: intrapersonal, professional, and interpersonal. Doulas self-identify as compassionate individuals. Self-reflection and professional experience enhance a sense of humanness for providers, clients, and families. Compassion sustains birth doulas, increasing their sense of efficacy and mitigating burnout.