The Top 8 Questions to Ask Your Doula When Interviewing Them
Hiring a doula can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing you with the emotional, physical, and informational support you need during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. To ensure that you find the best match for your family’s unique needs, it’s important to ask the right questions during the interview process. Here are some key questions to consider when interviewing a potential doula:
1. What is your experience and training?
- Why it matters: Understanding the doula’s background, training, and experience helps you gauge their qualifications and expertise. At MFD we often hear new parents say they would prefer a doula who has children of her own because they assume she has more experience. That is 100% a myth, any doula who has gone through the certification process is equally trained and ready to go! In fact, a doula without any of her own kids can often provide care from a slightly less biased point of view.
2. Ask your doula, what is your philosophy on birth and postpartum care?
- Why it matters: Every doula has their own approach and philosophy. It’s important to ensure their views align with your own preferences and values. Asking them their opinions might even bring some points of view to mind you hadn’t thought of before!
3. How do you support a birthing person’s partner or other family members?
- Why it matters: A doula’s role often extends to supporting the entire family. Knowing how they involve partners and other family members can be crucial to ensuring everyone feels included and supported.
4. What services do you offer, and what is included in your fee?
- Why it matters: Understanding the scope of services and associated costs can help you budget and avoid any unexpected expenses.
5. Ask your doula, what is your availability and backup plan?
- Why it matters: Ensuring your doula’s availability aligns with your due date and having a backup plan in case they are unavailable can provide peace of mind. One of the amazing things about a doula agency is the built-in backup coverage that is available if your doula is down for the count!
6. How do you approach postpartum care and support?
- Why it matters: Postpartum care is just as important as childbirth support. Knowing the doula’s approach to postpartum care can help you plan for a smoother transition.
7. What are your thoughts on pain management and interventions during labor?
- Why it matters: Understanding the doula’s thoughts on pain management and medical interventions can help ensure they will respect and support your preferences during labor.
8. How do we stay in touch throughout my pregnancy?
- Why it matters: Effective communication is key to a positive doula-client relationship. Knowing how to stay in touch with your doula can help you feel supported and informed throughout your pregnancy. Another amazing benefit of using the Michigan Family Doulas Agency is that I am just an email or text away and ready to help answer questions along the way!
Conclusion
Choosing the right doula is an important decision that can greatly impact your birthing and postpartum experience. By asking these key questions, you can ensure you find a doula who aligns with your values, meets your needs, and provides the support you deserve. Remember, the goal is to feel comfortable, informed, and empowered throughout your journey. Happy interviewing!
