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Interviewing a Doula | 
Expectant
Mothers!
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Possibly
the most important aspect of selecting a doula is finding
the one you're most
comfortable with. This might be a doula-in-training,
a less-experienced doula, or one of the "wise women" who have
provided doula
services for many years.
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Selecting
the person who will share one of the most intimate and
memorable experiences
of your lifetime requires preparation.
For these and many other reasons, I
recommend that parents interview
several doulas before making a final decision.
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Our
goal is to provide a doula for every woman who wants one, therefore,
please do not allow financial concerns to prevent you from locating a doula.
In the D/FW area, we have doulas who charge little, who barter for
fee,
who offer a sliding scale, who have group practices at reduced fees,
and those who occasionally provide pro bono (free) services.
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Suggestions
for interviewing your doula:
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- Invite
her into your home for an initial visit - there should be no fee for interviews.
If you have a partner, it is best if he/she is present for the interview.
- Ask
exactly what services she provides.
- Ask
about her philosophy of birth, her experiences as a doula and as a
mother (if applicable). Note any biases that may exist which may not fit
your view
of birth.
- Inquire
about her accreditations (if applicable), training & experience.
Check with
accrediting agencies to ensure that she is accredited.
- Ask how she can help you achieve your goals for childbirth and a
joyous birth
memory.
- If
you have a partner, ask about her role with your partner to provide
labor support.
- Ask if she has a backup doula in the event she is unavailable to attend
your birth for an unanticipated reason. Ask when you may meet her backup.
- Inquire
about her protocols to meet with you over the course of your pregnancy. Will she
be available by phone to answer questions, to assist
you in preparing a birth
plan, to get to know you better?
- Inquire
about her fees, and ask about payment options, if applicable.
Be forthright
about explaining any financial concerns you may have.
- Ask how you may contact her when you go into labor - does she have a
cell phone so you can reach her at any time?
- Ask if she has protocols for meeting mothers in labor - at home, in the
hospital
or birth center, or whenever you choose to have her with you.
- Does she provide at least one postpartum visit in your home?
- Ask
if you may contact a few of her previous clients or ask if she has
letters of
reference.
- Ask if she has forms evaluating her services for you to complete following
your birth
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Plan
to allow about 1 ½ to 2 hours for an initial interview
Pay
attention to how you feel with her.
Do
you feel relaxed and comfortable talking with her?
Does
she have a pleasant and warm manner?
Do
you feel she will "be there" for you and support your
choices in childbirth?
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Following
the interview:
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Talk over the interview with your partner (if applicable).
Try to imagine yourself in labor with this particular doula.
What does your
"heart" tell you about your interactions with her?
Many women say they knew
their doula was the "right choice"
when she walked in the door.
If you feel
hesitant, continue to interview doulas.
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updated
6-2008
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