Questions to Ask a Doula That Will Help You to Hire the Right One

Hiring a doula is a significant decision for expectant parents, as they provide invaluable support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. A doula is a trained professional who offers emotional, physical, and informational assistance to women and their partners before, during, and after childbirth. The word “doula” comes from the Greek language, meaning “a woman who serves.” In this article, we will explore the role of a doula, the benefits of having one, and provide a comprehensive list of questions to ask when interviewing potential doulas. These questions will help you find the right doula who aligns with your needs and preferences, ensuring a positive birth experience.

What Is a Doula?

A doula is a trained birth professional who offers continuous support to expectant parents throughout the childbirth process. Unlike midwives or doctors, doulas do not provide medical care but instead focus on the emotional, physical, and informational needs of the mother and her partner. Their role is to empower and advocate for the birthing person, providing personalized care and guidance.

Benefits of Having a Doula

Having a doula by your side during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period can have numerous advantages. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Emotional Support: Doulas offer unwavering emotional support, ensuring you feel heard, validated, and understood during the entire journey.
• Continuous Presence: Doulas provide continuous support during labor, ensuring someone is by your side throughout the process, regardless of its duration.
• Advocacy: Doulas act as advocates for the birthing person, ensuring their preferences and wishes are respected and communicated effectively to healthcare providers.
• Reduced Intervention Rates: Research has shown that having a doula present during labor and delivery can lead to lower rates of medical interventions, such as cesarean sections and epidurals.
• Improved Birth Satisfaction: Doulas help create a positive birth experience by providing reassurance, comfort measures, and coping techniques tailored to your needs.
• Partner Involvement: Doulas support both the birthing person and their partner, helping the partner feel confident and involved in the process.
• Postpartum Assistance: Doulas provide valuable support in the postpartum phase, aiding with breastfeeding, newborn care, and supporting emotional adjustments.
• Information and Education: Doulas provide evidence-based information and resources, empowering you to make informed decisions about your birth plan.

Doula Interview Questions to Ask

Wondering how to interview a doula? When interviewing potential doulas, it’s important to ask specific questions to ensure they are the right fit for you. Here are some essential questions to ask a doula in an interview:

1. Questions Related to Style/Personality/Approach

When interviewing a doula, ask these questions about their comforting techniques, communication style, and philosophy to gauge if it aligns with your preferences:

1. How would you describe your doula style or approach?
2. What is your philosophy regarding childbirth and the role of a doula?
3. How do you provide emotional support during labor and birth?
4. What techniques or comfort measures do you use to help manage pain and promote relaxation?
5. How do you involve the partner during the labor and birth process?
6. Can you share an example of a challenging birth situation you’ve encountered and how you handled it?
7. Are you comfortable working alongside medical professionals and respecting their roles?
8. How do you ensure cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in your doula practice?
9. What is your availability leading up to the birth and during labor?
10. Are you open to assisting with birth plans that include medical interventions if necessary?

2. Questions to Ask About Experience and Training

Ask the following questions to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge for a positive birthing experience:

1. How many births have you attended as a doula?
2. What types of births have you attended (e.g., hospital, home, birth center)?
3. Do you have experience supporting births with specific circumstances or medical conditions?
4. Are you certified as a doula? If so, which organization provided your certification?
5. What other relevant training or certifications do you have?
6. Do you have liability insurance?
7. Can you provide references from previous clients?
8. Are you part of a doula network or have a backup doula in case of emergencies?
9. How do you stay updated on current childbirth practices and research?
10. Have you had any personal experiences with birth that have influenced your doula practice?

3. Questions About Money

Ask the following questions to discuss fees, payment plans, and any additional costs upfront to avoid misunderstandings later:

1. What is your fee structure, and what does it include?
2. Are there any additional costs, such as travel expenses or extra services?
3. Do you offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on financial circumstances?
4. Are you available for a postpartum visit, and is it included in the fee?
5. What is your refund policy if circumstances change or the birth plan alters?
6. Are there any expenses that are not covered by your fee but should be anticipated?

4. Questions About Logistics

Addressing logistical aspects ensures a smooth and organized collaboration leading up to and during the birth, and asking these questions will help you immensely.

1. How do you typically communicate with clients (phone, email, text, etc.)?
2. What is your preferred method of contact during labor?
3. Will you help create a birth plan, and how involved can I be in the process?
4. Do you provide any educational materials or resources for childbirth preparation?
5. How do you handle overlapping births or being on call for multiple clients?
6. Will you assist with breastfeeding support and newborn care after birth?
7. Do you offer any postpartum follow-up or support?

5. Questions to Ask Yourself to Get the Process Started

These self-reflective questions will guide you in selecting a doula whose approach aligns with your unique expectations.

1. How important is it for me to have a doula present during labor and birth?
2. What specific qualities or skills am I looking for in a doula?
3. How do I envision the role of a doula during the childbirth process?
4. What are my expectations regarding emotional support and advocacy?
5. Am I comfortable with different birthing styles or approaches?
6. Do I prefer a doula who has experience with specific birthing circumstances or medical conditions?
7. What is my budget for hiring a doula, and am I open to negotiation or payment plans?
8. How involved do I want to be in creating my birth plan, and do I want the doula’s guidance?
9. Am I seeking a doula who provides postpartum support as well?
10. Are there any specific cultural or personal preferences I would like my doula to respect?
11. How important is it for me to have a doula who is available for continuous support during labor?
12. Do I feel comfortable with the doula’s personality and communication style?
13. Does the doula have a positive track record, including references and client testimonials?
14. Am I open to a doula who may have a different approach or philosophy from my own?
15. How do I envision the doula’s role in supporting my partner or other family members during labor?

So, this is a comprehensive list when it comes to what to ask a doula in an interview. By asking these comprehensive questions, you can gain a deeper understanding of each doula’s expertise, approach, and compatibility with your preferences. Take the time to evaluate their responses and trust your instincts when choosing the right doula to accompany you on your childbirth journey. Remember, a supportive and knowledgeable doula can make a world of difference in achieving a positive birth experience and smooth transition into parenthood.

Also Read:

Doula Vs Midwife
Postpartum Doula