So, You Want to Hire a Postpartum Doula?

Questions to Ask Your Potential Support Team

Did you know you get to “interview” your doula? It’s a great way to understand their philosophy & their packages/pricing. Here’s a list of questions to ask your potential postpartum doula.

Background and Training

1. Where did you receive your training?

2. What certifications do you hold?

3. What organization(s) are you certified through?

4. Have you taken any extra trainings?

5. How do you stay up to date on current research & practices?

6. Why did you chose postpartum work?

Prenatal Care

1. How many prenatal meetings does each package cover?

2. What is covered during your prenatal meetings?

3. Where will we meet for prenatal meetings?

Fees and Services

1. What services are included in each package?

2. Do you have any add on services?

3. Are there any limits to your services?

4. What do you do if something is out of your scope of practice?

Access

1. When do you go “on call”?

2. When does our contract begin?

3. When can I contact you? How?

4. How long do your contracts last?

Back Up

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

2. What happens if you get sick or can’t work a shift?

3. Do you have a back up doula?

Partner and Family Support

1. How do you support or involve my partner through postpartum?

2. How do you support or involve my other children?

3. My family member is coming after the baby is born, how will you work with them?

Values and Beliefs

1. Do you hold any strong opinions of beliefs arhat may prevent you from supporting our parenting decisions (sleep training, vaccines etc.)?

2. Is there any anything you absolutely will not do?

3. What is your favorite service to provide for clients?

Postpartum

1. What does postpartum mean to you?

2. What is your postpartum philosophy?

3. How would you describe your support style?

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At the end of this “interview” discuss her answers to your questions with your partner and decide if she will be the right fit for your family. Bringing a near perfect stranger into your home can be intimidating but these questions may help you get to know her a little bit better!

Book a Postpartum Support Session today!