Questions & Answers - Impossible character prompt

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Impossible character prompt

Printed From: NYC Midnight : Creative Writing & Screenwriting
Category: GENERAL DISCUSSION
Forum Name: Questions & Answers
Forum Description: Ask any questions you have regarding NYC Midnight competitions here. We will answer as quickly as possible.
URL: https://forums.nycmidnight.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=67165
Printed Date: 27 Mar 2026 at 12:33am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.05 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Impossible character prompt

Posted By: CGEE
Subject: Impossible character prompt
Date Posted: 27 Jan 2026 at 6:47pm

My genre is historical fiction, and my required character is a doula. The problem here is that doulas weren’t a profession until the 1960s. Am I to assume they mean midwife? There is no way to include a doula in historical fiction, unless you are specifically writing about 1960 and beyond. Not trying to be nit-picky but this has been awfully difficult and frustrating to research and try to include in my writing. Seems like an oversight.

Replies:

Posted By: NYC Midnight
Date Posted: 27 Jan 2026 at 9:35pm

Thanks for your question. We would recommend looking up the definition of 'doula' in a reputable dictionary, and then using a character that fits one or more of the definitions provided. You do not need to use the term 'doula' in your story, as long as it's clear that a relevant character in your story fits an acceptable definition.

As an example, the Cambridge Dictionary defines a doula as "a person, usually a woman, who is not medically trained but who gives help and support to a woman during pregnancy and during and after the birth of her baby."

So, if you were to set your story in the 1600's and a relevant character is offering help and support to a woman during pregnancy and during/after the birth of her baby, for example, it would be acceptable. There would be many other scenarios which would work, but hopefully this helps. Please let us know if you have any other questions or need anything else. Good luck!

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Posted By: NovaAdam
Date Posted: 31 Jan 2026 at 11:11pm

Crap, I didn't know that about the 1960 thing. I'd never heard of dula in the first place and only looked it up to get a definition. Well, we'll see how they view it in a Renaissance setting.