Worried About “Competition” as a Hypnobirthing Instructor or Doula? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Be.

For new hypnobirthing instructors or doulas, it’s natural to feel a bit uneasy when you see others in your area offering similar services. You might worry there won’t be enough work or that potential clients will go to someone with more experience. But here’s the truth: there’s more than enough demand for birth workers, and focusing on your unique strengths is the key to attracting clients who align with you.

Let’s unpack why competition shouldn’t discourage you—and how the abundance of opportunities can help you thrive in this beautiful, fulfilling work.

1. The Numbers Don’t Lie: Births Outnumber Birth Workers

Each year, there are hundreds of thousands of births in the UK alone, not to mention the countless number of birthers who seek out support and education long before their due date. When you look at the scale of demand versus the number of qualified hypnobirthing instructors and doulas, it quickly becomes clear that there’s plenty of work to go around.

Think of it like hairdressing: no matter how many salons exist in one town, people still need haircuts! Each stylist has their own style, personality, and clientele that are attracted to what makes them unique. Similarly, each birth worker brings a distinct approach, personality, and experience that resonates with certain parents. This diversity means there’s space for everyone to build a thriving, personalised practice.

2. Building a Birth Business: You Are Your Own USP

What will set you apart as a hypnobirthing instructor or doula isn’t necessarily your qualifications or the methods you teach—although those are important. Rather, it’s you: your personality, your energy, and the unique way you connect with clients.

Some people will seek out instructors who create a calm, serene environment, while others will look for someone who brings a bit of humour and lightheartedness to their sessions. Likewise, some clients will prioritise an instructor who’s deeply grounded in science, while others might prefer someone who incorporates a more holistic approach.

By embracing what makes you you, you’ll naturally attract clients who feel a genuine connection with your approach and style, which creates trust and an enjoyable working relationship for both parties.

3. Collaboration, Not Competition

When we let go of the mindset that other birth workers are “competition,” we open ourselves up to the chance for collaboration and a more supportive community. Consider connecting with other instructors and doulas in your area to share insights, resources, or even referrals. Here’s how collaboration can help everyone involved:

• Referrals: Birth workers are often fully booked or might get inquiries outside their area, which provides a chance to refer clients to you. Building these connections can help create a network that benefits everyone.

• Skill Sharing and Mentorship: More experienced instructors or doulas can offer insights that help you as you start your journey, while you might bring fresh ideas that inspire them as well.

• Collaboration on Workshops and Events: Running joint workshops, community events, or online sessions lets you share resources and audience reach, benefiting everyone involved.

By connecting and collaborating, you create a support network that strengthens your confidence, broadens your reach, and ultimately benefits the entire community of birth workers and parents.

4. There’s a Client for Every Approach

The diversity of birth workers out there means that parents can find the exact support they’re looking for. Rather than worrying about “competition,” try focusing on the specific strengths you bring. When you embrace your strengths, potential clients will feel that authenticity and be drawn to work with you.

You might specialise in:

• First-Time Parents: If you’re naturally empathetic and enjoy working with new parents who may have many questions, lean into that strength.

• High-Stress Situations: If you excel under pressure and have a calming influence, this could attract clients who feel especially anxious about birth.

• Inclusivity: If your practice prioritises diversity, inclusivity, and support for marginalised communities, this will resonate deeply with many parents.

By highlighting your unique perspective, you make it easier for parents who share those values to find you and choose your services.

5. Keep Expanding Your Skill Set

In any profession, continuous learning adds value and helps you stand out. By taking advanced training, getting certified in related areas, or expanding your knowledge of different birth techniques, you keep your skills sharp and make your practice even more appealing to potential clients.

Whether it’s learning new pain-relief methods, deepening your understanding of postnatal care, or expanding into additional services like postpartum doula support, investing in ongoing education keeps your business dynamic and responsive to clients’ needs.

Shifting Your Mindset from Scarcity to Abundance

As a birth worker, you’re entering a field where demand is high, and the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives is enormous. By embracing a mindset of abundance, you free yourself from the stress of competition and instead focus on growth, connection, and collaboration.

So if you’re ready to take the leap into birth work, remember: there are more than enough clients, opportunities, and resources for everyone to thrive. Focus on building a practice that reflects your strengths, values, and unique approach. This is what makes you memorable and what will ultimately lead clients to seek you out specifically.

So take a deep breath, set aside any worries about “competition,” and start building your practice with confidence. There’s a whole world of birthers out there who are looking for exactly what you have to offer.