Choosing a doula can be one of the most important decisions you make for your pregnancy and childbirth experience. A doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. 

Studies have shown that continuous support during labor, such as that provided by a doula, can improve birth outcomes, including shorter labor durations and decreased rates of interventions like cesarean sections. 

To ensure you find the right doula for your needs, it’s essential to ask the right questions. Here are key doula interview questions to consider when meeting potential doulas.

1. What is your training and certification?

Understanding a doula’s background is crucial. Ask about their training, certifications, and any additional courses they’ve completed. Common certifying organizations include DONA International, CAPPA, and ICEA. This will give you an idea of their commitment to professional standards and ongoing education.

2. How many births have you attended?

Experience can significantly impact the quality of support a doula can provide. Ask how many births they’ve attended and the types of birth experiences they have supported, such as home births, hospital births, or births at birthing centers. A study by the Cochrane Collaboration found that experienced doulas often help reduce the length of labor and improve maternal satisfaction with the birthing experience .

3. What is your philosophy on birth?

A doula’s philosophy on birth should align with your own. A doula from MothersCare doesn’t have a philosophy for your birth.  She will follow your lead. Some doulas may emphasize natural birth, while others are more flexible and supportive of various birth plans, including those involving medical interventions. Your doula from MothersCare will respect your birth plan and work in harmony with your healthcare providers.

4. How do you involve the partner in the birth process?

If you have a partner who will be present at the birth, it’s important to understand how the doula will involve them. A good doula can support both the mother and the partner, helping to create a cohesive and supportive team. Research has shown that partner involvement during childbirth can enhance emotional support for the mother and reduce stress for both partners .

5. What services do you offer during labor?

Doulas can offer various types of support during labor, including massage, breathing techniques, positioning suggestions, and emotional encouragement. Ask for specifics on the types of support they provide and any tools or techniques they commonly use. The American Pregnancy Association notes that doulas can provide valuable assistance in managing pain and facilitating labor progression through non-pharmacological methods .

6. How do you handle unexpected situations?

Birth can be unpredictable, and it’s essential to know how your doula handles unexpected situations, such as emergency interventions or changes in your birth plan. Ask for examples of how they’ve managed such scenarios in the past. The ability to adapt and provide reassurance during unexpected events is a key quality of a competent doula. Your doula should respect the medical team and will not interfere with medical decisions.  She can, however, help you and your partner understand what your options are, if any.

7. What is your availability around my due date?

Inquire about the doula’s availability and how they handle being on call around your due date. It’s also important to know if they have backup arrangements in case they are unavailable when you go into labor. Ensuring that your doula will be available when you need them can help reduce anxiety as your due date approaches.

8. How many clients do you take on per month?

Doulas often limit the number of clients they take on to ensure they can provide adequate support. Ask about their client load to gauge how much time and attention they can dedicate to you. This can also affect their ability to provide personalized care and be readily available when labor begins.

9. What postpartum support do you provide?

Support doesn’t end at birth.  Included in your contract is a home visit to go over the birth with you and your partner to provide details and ultimately positive closure. MothersCare offers postpartum services  with postpartum doulas to help with breastfeeding, newborn care, and emotional support. Clarify the extent of postpartum services they offer and any additional costs involved.According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, postpartum support can significantly impact maternal well-being and the establishment of breastfeeding .

10. What are your fees and what do they include?

Discussing fees upfront is important. Understand what services are included in their fee and if there are any additional charges for extra services or extended hours of support. Transparency in fees helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that you are fully aware of the financial commitment involved.

11. Can you provide references?

Speaking with past clients can give you insight into a doula’s strengths and areas for improvement. Ask for references and follow up with them to hear about their experiences. Positive feedback from other parents can provide reassurance and help you feel more confident in your choice.

12. How do you support clients with specific needs or preferences?

If you have specific needs, such as a planned cesarean, VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), or preferences for certain birthing practices, ask how the doula accommodates these. Ensure they are comfortable and experienced with your particular requirements. Tailored support is essential for a positive and personalized birth experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right doula involves more than just finding someone with the right qualifications; it’s about finding someone whose approach and personality resonate with you. By asking these doula interview questions, you can make a well-informed decision and find a doula who will provide the support you need for a positive birth experience.