A bipartisan effort in the Senate aims to expand healthcare access for women veterans, specifically addressing the unique challenges they face during pregnancy and postpartum care. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) have reintroduced the Delivering Optimally Urgent Labor Access for Veterans Affairs Act of 2026, or DOULA Act, which would establish a five-year pilot program to integrate doula services into the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system. This legislation responds to growing recognition of the need for more holistic and supportive maternity care for those who have served in the military.
The core of the DOULA Act lies in providing eligible veterans with up to 10 doula care sessions. These sessions would be delivered by trained doulas specializing in supporting individuals with experiences like military sexual trauma (MST) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Doulas offer continuous physical, emotional and informational support during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period – a level of care that can significantly impact both maternal and infant health outcomes. The program would also establish Doula Service Coordinators at participating VA facilities to facilitate access and ensure quality of care.
The reintroduction of this bill builds on Senator Booker’s initial efforts, sparked by a 2018 Veterans Day roundtable discussion with female veterans, where the need for improved maternity care was a central theme. “Pregnant veterans face unique challenges, especially when it comes to mental health, and studies indicate that doulas can help provide better health outcomes given that they are trained to provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy and after birth,” Senator Booker stated. “This bipartisan legislation will expand access to doulas through the VA and give veterans the support they need for safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for both mothers and their children.”
Addressing a Critical Gap in Veteran Healthcare
The need for specialized maternity care for veterans is underscored by a growing body of research highlighting the increased risks faced by this population. According to a 2010 study, veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan were twice as likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia during pregnancy. The study, published in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry, emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health concerns alongside physical health during this vulnerable time.
The United States already faces a concerning maternal mortality rate, which is the highest among high-income countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2021, there were 32.9 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in the U.S. (CDC, 2023). For veterans, these risks can be compounded by the lasting effects of trauma experienced during military service. Doulas are increasingly recognized as a vital component of comprehensive maternity care, offering support that can reduce complications and improve birth outcomes.
Broad Support from Veteran Advocacy Groups
The DOULA Act has garnered significant support from prominent veteran advocacy organizations, signaling a widespread recognition of the need for this type of care. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) has voiced strong support, stating that the bill “recognizes that comprehensive maternal health care for veterans must include access to trained doulas.” Naomi Mathis, DAV Deputy National Legislative Director, emphasized that doulas “improve birth outcomes, reduce complications and help address disparities in maternal care—particularly for those who may face higher risks or barriers to access.”
Similarly, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) expressed its backing for the legislation. “Women veterans deserve timely, comprehensive, and patient-centered maternity care, including continuous support during pregnancy and childbirth,” said Meggan Colemand, VFW National Legislative Service Associate Director. The VFW believes integrating doulas into VA maternity care will “strengthen care coordination, improve patient experiences, and address disparities in maternal health outcomes.” The bill also has endorsements from the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) and the YWCA Northern New Jersey.
How the DOULA Act Would Perform
The DOULA Act aims to integrate doula care seamlessly into the VA’s existing Whole Health Model, a patient-centered approach that focuses on overall well-being. The pilot program would prioritize veterans who have experienced MST or PTSD, recognizing the unique challenges they may face during pregnancy and childbirth. Doula Service Coordinators would play a crucial role in connecting veterans with qualified doulas and ensuring the program’s effectiveness.
The legislation specifically calls for doulas to receive training in supporting individuals with MST and PTSD, ensuring they are equipped to provide sensitive and trauma-informed care. By providing up to 10 doula care sessions, the program aims to offer substantial support throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period, fostering a sense of empowerment and autonomy for veteran mothers. A key goal is also to increase post-birth engagement with the VA, encouraging continued access to healthcare services.
Looking Ahead: Next Steps for the DOULA Act
The reintroduction of the DOULA Act marks an important step toward improving maternity care for women veterans. The bill now heads to committee for consideration. The next key milestone will be a hearing to discuss the legislation and gather input from stakeholders. Advocates are hopeful that the bipartisan support demonstrated by Senators Booker and Murkowski will pave the way for swift passage into law.
The full text of the bill is available for review on Senator Booker’s website.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a proposed legislation and should not be considered medical or legal advice. If you are a veteran experiencing challenges with pregnancy or postpartum care, please reach out to the VA or a qualified healthcare professional.
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