Whether it’s your first or fifth baby, there are many reasons to hire a doula for support!

Having a doula was important to me leading up to, during and after childbirth because of my man’s work schedule. I also chose to have a midwife instead of a doctor (stay tuned for my post on midwives coming soon).

Choosing a doula isn’t as easy as you might think, and the really good ones tend to book up very quickly!

In my experience, these three questions are important to ask all doulas you’re meeting with before selecting one that’s right for you. Download a detailed checklist of questions to ask doulas here.

1.     What are their specific qualifications?

Doulas’ levels of education and experience can vary a lot. Many become certified after taking certain post-secondary education courses. Don’t be afraid to ask for credentials.

Other important questions about experience include:

• the number of births they have been present at

• how many of those babies were delivered naturally, vaginally or with medical intervention such as a C-section, and

• whether the babies were delivered in a hospital or at home births.

It may also be important to you that a doula have personal experience delivering their own baby.

Keep in mind that although doulas are typically certified, they are not classified as medical professionals. They may be able to provide techniques for managing pain during childbirth but are not able to administer medication.

2. What sets them apart and what is included in their services?

Ask about their general approach, what their services entail, and what they offer that makes them unique.

A doula often acts as a personal advocate during childbirth. Figuring out if your personalities mesh is just as important as determining if you are on the same page when it comes to taking medication. Ask how they feel about medicated births and interventions compared to natural childbirths. Find out what techniques they usually recommend for relaxation and pain management, from natural methods like relaxation and breathing to medical intervention options.

Another thing to clarify is what is included in the doula’s services. What does pre-labor support look like — are they only available by phone and text, or is it in person support? When do they show up in person — is it only once you go into active labor? If there is a c-section, what does the support looks like?

Some doulas bring ambience or things like aromatherapy to the childbirth. Other practitioners may be able to offer relaxation massages to clients. There are even some doulas that may help with cooking, cleaning and other household tasks.

It can be beneficial if a doula is also a lactation consultant and can offer postpartum assistance. If so, how long do they stay after the birth to latch the baby?

3.     Check on references, availability and back-up

Confirm your doula’s availability in the weeks leading up to and following your due date! You may even want to know their specific days and hours of work each week.

It’s not a bad idea to meet with your doula’s backup just in case she is unable to help you at the last minute due to an emergency. Does she have equivalent experience and skill set? The last thing you need in the weeks leading up to childbirth is to be stressed and scrambling to find a suitable replacement. Read the terms of your doula’s contract carefully.

Don’t forget to ask for references. Reading testimonials and other feedback can also provide good insight. Always consult with your midwife or doctor as they most likely have experience working with the doula or have heard by word of mouth.

Share your doula experiences and tips in the comments below!