Interviewing Birth Doulas? 10 Questions to Ask Them

You’re pregnant, congrats! You know you want a doula a part of your birth team. Great! You have taken some time to contact a few local doulas, to set up an interview. Which, should always be at no cost to you, whether you meet in person or chat over the phone. What now?

Having a doula at such an intimate event in your life, means having someone you can feel completely comfortable with. A majority of the interview is getting a feel for the doula, but it’s good to have some questions to ask them as well.

Here are 10 questions (really a little more though, but they are grouped together), in no particular order, that are great to learn about a doula you’re considering.  Some of these may have already been answered from looking at their website, or being told beforehand them.

1. Why did you become a doula? What do you love about your work?
2. Are you certified, and what is your training?
3. What is your philosophy about doula work?
4. How many clients do you take on average, a month?
5. Do you charge overtime? How do you handle long/short/cesarean births?
6. Do you use a backup? If so, how did you choose your backup? Can I meet them?
7. When do you like to join clients in labor?
   
8. What “tools” do you use most in births?
   
9. Do you have a list of local professionals that you refer to?
10. What sets you apart from other doulas?