How to Interview a Doula

Many people confuse doulas with midwives, but their roles are complimentary. While a midwife provides medical care, a doula's role is that of supporter and champion of the new mother and her partner. Doulas greatly enhance a woman's positive birth experience and can help the partner parent better support mother and child. Read on for some questions you should ask when you look for a doula.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to hire a birth doula or a postpartum doula. Birth doulas support an expectant mother during labor and delivery whereas postpartum doulas help the family at home after the birth.

2. Ask about her qualifications and training. Make sure you choose a certified doula. Reputable doulas should be willing to provide you with references.

3. Check with a potential doula about her schedule and ask her if she is taking new clients for the month you are due. If one doula finds that she's booked around the time of your due date, ask her if she will recommend another.

4. Inquire about the doula's fees and what her charges include. Ask her if there are circumstances under which she might charge extra. Ask your doula if she works with other doulas so you will have a "backup" in case she is unavailable.

5. Discuss her philosophy regarding childbirth and her role in it. Have your partner meet the doula to ensure that he or she is also comfortable with the doula. Make sure everyone involved in your birth agrees on a birth plan and any contingency plans.

6. Schedule times throughout your pregnancy to meet with your doula to bond with each other and discuss your birth plan and her role in it.

Resources

• Doulas of North America website
• Learn about doulas.