I’ve been doing initial doula consults (some people call them interviews) for over 12 years now. Some people come in with generalized questions, some come in with a very specific, detailed list of questions. While there are no bad questions, here are some of the questions I wish people would ask more:
- What certifications do you hold? Are they in good standing with that certification? Are there ways to file grievances if needed?
- What trainings have you taken? What additional training or continued education have they had?
- How do you feel about your relationships with providers in our area? Listen to their responses. How do you feel about what they’re saying?
- Do you feel confident supporting a planned cesarean? What about a planned induction or planned unmedicated birth? Your doula should be comfortable supporting every possible birth modality.
- Are you trained and able to support various types of infant feeding?
- What happens if you can’t be at my birth? Who will attend? Do they have a consistent and reliable backup? Is the backup able to support you like the doula in front of you would?
- When do you go “on-call” for me? What happens if I need you before that? Some doulas go on-call at 38 weeks, and others, like our agency, go on-call from the time you sign the contract.
- How will you support my partner through labor and birth? The partner is an important part of the family unit and your doula should be able to support both of you well.
What would you add? What is on the list you didn’t think of?
