You should ALWAYS interview a doula you are thinking about hiring. After all, this person will be present at one of the most important events of your life! Below are some questions you should absolutely include in your interview. This list isn’t exhaustive, so feel free to add questions about issues that are important to you!
- Are you certified?
While being certified is optional for doulas, and there are INCREDIBLE doulas who aren’t certified, it does indicate a few things. First, that the doula went through formal training. Second, to maintain certification, a doula must complete a certain number of continuing education hours. So if your doula is certified, you know they are constantly learning new skills and information to make them better. Finally, in the event of another epidemic or pandemic, certification has its benefits. In my area during COVID, hospitals were allowing doulas into delivery rooms ONLY if they were certified through certain organizations. - What is your experience with ____________?
If you have a particular concern in your pregnancy, ask your doula about their experience with it! Maybe you have gestational diabetes and will be getting induced at 37 weeks. Maybe you’re planning a cesarean. See what your doula has to say about those situations. - How do you make sure my partner stays involved in the birth?
Many partners (and birthers) can be hesitant to hire a doula due to fears that the partner will feel replaced. A good doula makes sure that doesn’t happen! - What exactly does your fee cover?
Make sure you know EXACTLY what you’re paying for. - When do you arrive at my birth, and how long will stay?
Some doulas have time limits for how long they’ll stay at a birth, and when they’ll call in a backup. Make sure you are on the same page about timing. - What does follow-up look like?
Most doulas offer at least one postpartum visit. - What happens if something comes up and you can’t attend my birth?
Emergencies happen, and sometimes doulas aren’t able to make it to a client’s birth, despite their best efforts. Make sure your doula has a plan for that situation.Finally, the most important question to ask when deciding to hire a doula is actually a question to ask yourself:
- How do I feel about this person?
Your doula can have 20 years of experience and hundreds of births under their belt, but if you don’t feel comfortable with them, it doesn’t matter. The most important thing to consider when you choose someone to be at your birth (and this extends to family members and friends as well!) is how you connect with them, and how comfortable you feel having them at your birth.If you’d like to set up a free consultation to determine if I would be a good fit for your birth team, click here!
