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KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Health does not recognize a “doula” as a midwife and is prohibited from giving medical advice to new mothers, its Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Adham Baba (pix) said yesterday at the Dewan Rakyat.
He said action could be taken under Subsection 14 (1) of the Midwives Act of 1966 (Act 436) against those who are not trained as midwives but act as such.
He said the offense carries a maximum fine of RM2,000 and one year in jail.
“The training and services of a doula are not clear and they are not registered with any association in the country.
“A doula is prohibited from giving medical advice or advice related to preterm labor or smooth labor,” she said in response to a question from Dr. Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen (PH-Bandar Kuching).
Adham said a doula is required to undergo training if she wishes to escort new mothers.
He added that they must also adhere to established guidelines and policies.
A doula is a non-medical birth attendant and generally acts as a partner for the woman before, during, and after delivery to provide physical and emotional support.
Adham said the Health Ministry has taken steps to improve safe delivery, among others.
He said the ministry had issued a circular to reduce unsafe births in 2014 that has guidelines for expectant mothers opting for home birth and checklists and integrates the mother-friendly care (MFC) component in the Initiative. baby friendly hospitals in 2012.
He said that under CFM, pregnant women are encouraged to have a companion during the birthing process to provide emotional and physical support.
“Even for low-risk deliveries, trained health personnel are required to be present,” he said, adding that this is to ensure that help is available if there are complications experienced by the baby and / or the mother during and after delivery. .
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