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New Member
posted Oct 29, 2019 6:55:06 PM

Can I claim the cost for doula support during labour as a medical expense?

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1 Best answer
Level 6
Oct 29, 2019 6:55:06 PM

Only if you were officially referred to this service by a medical professional.
Usually this is not the case, as a doctor would generally counsel and refer hospitalization for an at-risk pregnancy. This was recently the case with my daughter. She had a doula lined up, but was forced to be hospitalized with a first child at 41 years old and with Oedema of pregnancy, which can be fatal.
If you simply opt for doula service as a personal preference, that is fine, but not eligible for medical expense credit.

4 Replies
Level 6
Oct 29, 2019 6:55:06 PM

Only if you were officially referred to this service by a medical professional.
Usually this is not the case, as a doctor would generally counsel and refer hospitalization for an at-risk pregnancy. This was recently the case with my daughter. She had a doula lined up, but was forced to be hospitalized with a first child at 41 years old and with Oedema of pregnancy, which can be fatal.
If you simply opt for doula service as a personal preference, that is fine, but not eligible for medical expense credit.

New Member
Oct 29, 2019 6:55:07 PM

A doula doesn't substitute a doctor, though - are you thinking of a midwife Tony? Your daughter could have easily had a doula present in addition to a doctor for her higher-risk experience.

New Member
Oct 29, 2019 6:55:09 PM

But I don't know for certain, and I'm also interested in the answer. I am using a doula this spring.

Level 6
Oct 29, 2019 6:55:10 PM

Certain services may be eligible in some provinces but not in others. CRA has a comprehensive list of these.