Why It’s Better to Hire Your Doula from an Agency!
Eek! Gasp!! Did she just say it’s BETTER to hire a doula from an agency? But what does ‘better’ mean? Let’s dive into what I’m talking about here….
Hiring a doula can make a significant difference in the birthing & postpartum experiences of the entire family. Doula services are becoming increasingly popular among expectant mothers. However, it can be challenging to choose a doula that meets your needs and expectations (and that’s actually trained, certified, background-checked, insured, CPR certified and the list goes on!) Now, we’re not bashing independent doulas—I used to be one!
But, to avoid some of the bad situations we have been hearing about and witnessing lately, here’s some of the reasons we think it’s better to hire a doula from a doula agency.
1. Access to a Network of Vetted Doulas
Doula agencies have a network of experienced and trained doulas. This network ensures that you have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to selecting a doula that best suits your needs. With a doula agency, you won’t have to worry about going through the rigorous process of finding a doula on your own. Plus, you can rest assured that your doula will be background checked vetted so that she will be safe in your home!
2. Assurance of Quality Services
Doula agencies have a reputation to uphold, and as such, they ensure that they provide quality services. They have a screening process to select experienced and trained doulas. This screening process helps to ensure that you get a doula who has the necessary skills and experience to provide you with quality services. In the case of Michigan Family Doulas, each of our doulas are then trained in providing only evidence-based, non-biased, non-judgmental support.
3. Backup Doulas
This point is big. Huge, in fact. One of the biggest advantages of hiring a doula from a doula agency is that you get access to backup doulas. In case your primary doula is unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances (illness, injury, snow storm, etc.) , the agency can provide a backup doula. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about being left without a doula during labor, or when you so desperately need sleep during your postpartum recovery. With Michigan Family Doulas, you will get to pick a primary and a backup doula–so you always know your team.
4. Ongoing Support
Doula agencies provide ongoing support throughout your pregnancy, during labor, and in many cases, up to a full year after you have your baby. This support can include phone calls, text messages, and especially in-person visits. This ongoing support ensures that you have someone to turn to if you have any questions or concerns. You will always have someone to be a listening ear, a guide and another pair of experienced hands.
Hiring a doula from a doula agency provides several benefits, including access to a network of doulas, assurance of quality services, backup doulas, and ongoing support. I have heard so many stories lately of families hiring an independent doula who then came into their home and it was a DISASTER, and the family was left with no help at all. This is all avoided with a vetted, well-respected, professional doula agency in your corner. Hey….check out the rest of our website so you can see what other awesome things our team can do for you!
