Hiring a doula is a deeply personal decision, as they play a vital role in supporting you through one of life’s most transformative experiences—childbirth. But how do you know if a doula is the right fit for you? I would like to share seven essential factors to consider when choosing a doula. These tips will help you find someone who aligns with your needs, values, and vision for your birth.
1. How Was She Trained?
Understanding a doula’s training and experience is a great starting point. Some doulas gain expertise by attending births for friends, family, or community members, while others complete formal training programs. Ask how many births she has attended and what types of births she’s supported (e.g., home, hospital, or birth center). This gives you insight into her background and confidence in various scenarios.
Question to Ask: What training have you completed, and how many births have you attended?
2. What Are Her Fees, and What Do They Include?
Doulas’ fees vary, and it’s important to know what’s included. Does the fee cover prenatal visits, labor support, and postpartum follow-up? Some doulas offer additional services, like birth photography, which may be included or come at an extra cost. Clarifying this upfront ensures there are no surprises later.
Question to Ask: What are your fees, and what services are included in that price?
3. What Is Her Philosophy of Birth?
Your doula’s philosophy on birth should align with your own values and preferences. For example, if you’re planning a natural birth, a doula who leans toward medicalized approaches might not be the best fit. Conversely, if you want an epidural, a doula who strongly favors unmedicated births may not fully support your choices. Discussing this ensures you’re on the same page and that she can advocate for your vision.
Question to Ask: How would you describe your philosophy of birth, and how do you support clients with different preferences?
4. How Many Births Does She Take Per Month?
Doulas typically attend two to four births per month to ensure they can be fully present for each client. If a doula takes on too many clients, there’s a risk she might miss your birth due to scheduling conflicts. Knowing her availability helps you feel confident she’ll be there when you need her.
Question to Ask: How many clients do you take each month, and how do you manage your schedule?
5. What Is Her Backup Plan for Emergencies?
Life is unpredictable, and even the most dedicated doula may face an emergency that prevents her from attending your birth. Ask about her backup plan—does she have a trusted colleague who can step in, or would she refund your fee if she’s unavailable? This information is crucial to ensure you’re never left without support.
Question to Ask: What happens if you’re unable to attend my birth due to an emergency?
6. Do You Feel a Connection With Her?
A doula is more than a professional—she’s a trusted member of your birth team. You should feel comfortable, safe, and understood in her presence. Building trust through prenatal meetings is key, so you can relax and focus on your birth knowing she’s there to support you. A good doula doesn’t need to agree with every choice you make but should be committed to advocating for your decisions.
Question to Ask: Can we meet a few times before the birth to build trust and discuss my preferences?
7. Can She Support Your Decisions?
The best doulas empower you to make informed choices and advocate for those decisions, even if they differ from her own views. Whether you’re planning a hospital birth with interventions or a home birth without medical support, your doula should encourage you and work with your care providers to ensure your wishes are respected.
Question to Ask: How do you support clients whose birth choices differ from your own?
Choose Your Doula with Confidence
Selecting the right doula is about finding someone who complements your birth team and supports your unique journey. By considering these seven factors—training, fees, philosophy, availability, backup plans, personal connection, and advocacy—you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. At Fruitful Seasons, we’re passionate about helping you create a positive birth experience. Check out our services to learn more or connect with our community for additional support.
Ready to find your perfect doula? Use these questions as a guide to start the conversation and build the birth team you’ve been praying for!
~Shaine