I am a current CNA student working on my nursing pre-reqs(full time), also a birth doula 3 years and a massage therapist 7 years, specializing in pregnancy and fertility, also looking long term to becoming a CNM. I begin clinicals on Monday and I am already applying for hospital CNA/CST jobs. And I am talking with a local home birth CNM about assisting her. She takes on several assistants, so this option works for both of us. I get some experience and she has a network of doula/assistants she can call on.
You most likely wont get into L & D as a CNA, but the hospital experience will be a big advantage for you later on when you apply for a RN job.
You can get your DONA training, it is only a weekend workshop, then find a place to volunteer as a doula. Many hospitals have volunteer programs, you can volunteer just a day a week or every other to get some birth experience at the same time as your hospital experience. This way you aren't on call, possibly missing classes or your CNA shift for a birth. Also, note that many RNs in L & D are getting their DONA training, be great to already have it when you get your RN and apply for those L & D jobs. Think about CLC, lactation counselor as well. I'm doing it this summer.
By the way, getting your DONA training is great support experience, but a different skill than assisting a home birth midwife. For that you are the midwife's support person, not the mom's. You will pack bags, clean instruments, fetch supplies, hold flashlights, etc. But you will also shadow her, get to talk about the birth from her perspective rather than the moms. Both are important perspectives, but if you have children already than you have this perspective.
Mine is a very full plan. It doesn't all have to be done simultaneously, pick and choose what works for your life situation and local availability. If you want it, you will get there however long it takes and however many detours there are in front of you. Best of luck!
Peace, love & babies
C
