Four Steps to Choosing the Perfect Doula
Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period mark a significant time of change in your life. During this transformative time, having a doula by your side can provide the calming presence you need. A doula serves as a caring listener and a reliable source of support when you need it the most.
Choosing the right doula for your needs is a vital step towards creating an empowering birth experience. You might be wondering, "but how do I do that?" As a full spectrum doula with personal experience as a mom, I have compiled four essential steps that will help you feel confident in choosing the perfect doula for yourself.
Step 1 : Decide What Kind of Doula Support You Want
In the diverse world of doulas, there are numerous support options. Are you wanting a doula solely for the birthing process, or perhaps one specializing in postpartum care? Or maybe both? Alternatively, are you interested in a doula who teaches Childbirth Education courses, or someone who specializes in Lactation Support? Also, some doulas offer the convenience of virtual prenatal support, connecting with you over email or phone. Some dedicated doulas prefer to meet with you multiple times, ensuring every question is answered and every concern addressed prior to your birth. Once you understand the type of support that meets needs, you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Do your Research and Get Reccomendations
Look into Doulas in your area. Do a google search for “Doulas in (City, State).” Scroll through the options, making sure to save the ones who offer what services you need. Take note of their credentials and experience. You need a doula with the education to help and the passion to advocate. Look into their philosophies when it comes to birth, and see if they align with yours.
Most cities will have doula agencies, where a team of doulas will care for you. If you want a more personal approach, look into private doulas in your area. Not finding anything? Ask around! Ask your OB/GYN or Midwife if they know any doulas, get recommendations from friends or coworkers that have used a doula. More than likely, someone you know can point you in the direction of an exceptional doula.
Step 3: Interview Your Top 3 Choices
After you look into doulas in your area, or get a list of recommended doulas from people you know, rank your top 3. Who are you most drawn to? Who can you afford? Who offers what you need and who doesn’t? Once you have that list made, reach out to schedule a consultation with each. Most of the time, doulas will offer a free consultation call or meeting so you can get to know them and their philosophies. Make a list, take notes. Remember, there is no shame in weighing your options. Choosing who to have by your side during your birth and postpartum is an important, personal decision.
Keep reading for the top 10 interview questions to ask!
Step 4: Listen to Your Intuition
I cannot stress this step enough. Trust. Your. Gut! You will know when you feel comfortable with a doula, and when you don’t. Trust yourself. Research, recommendations, pro and con lists, and other logistical things are amazing for narrowing down your options. However, the decision on who to choose should ultimately be built on who you feel most comfortable and confident with. You know your needs better than anyone else.
Top 10 Doula Interview Questions
What is your philosophy about birth and postpartum? How do you implement that in your practice?
What is included in your service packages? What other services do you offer?
What comfort techniques do you like to use to support women in labor?
What kind of training do you have? Are you certified?
Why did you decide to become a doula?
Have you attended a birth at my location before? What was your experience like?
When will you join me during labor? Do you have a back-up doula?
What does your postpartum care look like?
How do you work with other birth partner (husband, friend, mom, etc.)?
What is your opinion on epidurals, inductions, breast v. bottle, pain meds, etc.?
