Virginia is the 4^th state in the nation to offer community doula services as a benefit for Medicaid members through the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). Existing doulas and interested individuals are encouraged to apply for certification as a state-certified community doula and join the Virginia Medicaid program as a provider. Community doulas provide support to pregnant and postpartum women through their grounding within the community, languages, and value systems of the populations they serve. The emotional, physical, and informational support provided by doulas include childbirth education, lactation support, and referrals for health or social services. A state-certified community doula is certified by the Virginia Certification Board and is a trusted source of support for birthing families.