Demand grows for doulas who can help moms with addiction

By: Nada Hassanein

Outlets: Stateline

Published: January 30, 2026

Words: 1,186

Last Updated: 1 week, 4 days ago

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“Don’t give me narcotics.”

Emmalee Hortin, a doula, recalled one of her clients delivering that message to hospital staff. Doctors were operating on the woman to clear tissue after a miscarriage.

But despite her patient’s pleas, clinicians still administered fentanyl via IV to manage pain, Hortin said. Her client had substance use disorder and had been working toward recovery.

“She was really, really upset,” Hortin said. “She actually was really worried about returning to use, …

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