Choosing a doula can be a task in itself. You are choosing some one you connect with, is well knowledged as well as trained, and the person you would like to include in your birth experience. Women have many reasons for choosing to use a doula. I have compiled a list of questions that I have run across both on-line and in person by clients. Hopefuly it will help you be able to desipher if there is a personal connection with you potential doula.
Questions to Ask when Interviewing a Doula
Are you certified? What training did you go through to be certified? Do you have any additional training? What would you consider your strongest area of the doula process (calming, positions, advocacy....)? Alternately, what would you say is the area you work hardest at improving in? What do you cost? Do you offer any discounts or payment options? When is payment due? What does that cost include? Do you offer any other services? Will you meet with me before the birth? What is covered in these meetings? Will you meet with me after the birth? How long do you stay after the birth? Do you offer breastfeeding support? If you’re not available for the birth, do you have a back-up? Who is your back-up doula and how often does she need to step in? May I meet with your back-up or speak to her over the phone? How many upcoming births do you have, and what are the EDD of those women? Do you take pictures during the birth? What is your philosophy about birth? Do you feel natural childbirth is the only way to give birth? Will my birthing facility accept having you there? What do you bring to the birth? What happens if you miss my birth? What comfort techniques do you offer for the birth? Will you meet me at home during labor or do you prefer meeting me at the hospital? We will be delivering at XYZ Hospital, have you delivered there before and/or is the distance a problem for you?
You now have a basis of interviewing questions. Fell free to pick and choose and add a few that are important to you. For more information on the hiring process check Doulamatch.net