Thursday, 3 October 2013

Questions to Ask When You Interview a Doula

Updated 29 February 2016

There are a lot of birth doulas here in Korea now. Meeting with a couple doulas first and deciding which one you (and your partner) feel most comfortable with is best than just hiring them first doula you come across. Many doulas draw up contracts, which help both parties out. Here are some questions that you might want to ask. Gentle Birth Balance  and The Doula Book also have some very thought provoking questions to ask a birth doula.

History
  • Where did you get your training? Are you certified?
  • How long have you been a doula for?
  • How many births have you attended?
  • Have you attending a birth at my hospital? with my doctor? midwife?
  • Could you tell me about some of the births you attended?
  • Do you have children? Did you have a doula for your birth(s)?
  • What's your view on childbirth?
  • Have you attended a C-section birth? Home birth? Water birth? (Pick what's applicable)

Philosophy
  • Why did you become a doula?
  • How would you describe your style?
  • How do you support labouring moms?
  • Are there any books or websites that you'd recommend? 
  • How do you involve the birth partner?
  • How do you feel about pain medication? What other comfort techniques could I use?

The Fine Print
  • Do you have a contract we can sign?
  • What does your fee cover? What's your refund policy?
  • How many births do you schedule a month?
  • Is there a time limit for the birth?
  • Who's your back-up doula? Can I meet them ahead of time?
  • How do I get in touch with you? When should I get in touch with you?
  • Will you travel?
  • How many pre-natal visits do you do? For how long?
  • How can you help my partner during my birth?
  • Can you help me write a birth plan?
  • What happens if you don't make it to the birth because it was a fast labor?
 
After the Birth
  • How long do you stay after the birth?
  • Do you come check-up on us after giving birth? How many times and for how long?
  • Can you help with breastfeeding? 

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Tender Embrace Birthing offers childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes and support.




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