how to choose a doula?

rjs100

I am interested in having a doula assist with my delivery. There are over 25 in my area, and I know I will need to meet with them to see if we click, but how do I narrow down who to meet with just based on their profiles alone?

 

LindseyJW

make a list of your priorities (when will she come during labor, how many clients does she take on at a time, how many times will you meet with her before/after birth, how many hours does she stay, does she provide lactation support, etc.) and decide how much you are willing to spend.

you can narrow the list down by what you are willing to spend, then email them to make a short list based on your priorities.

i think there is a post on choosing a doula in the FAQs for this board (link in my siggie) 

tokenhoser

I did it based on availability (they book up fairly early here) and price.

If you're doing a specific birth method, that would also narrow it down. You'd want a doula as into bradley/hypnobirthing/etc as you are.

rjs100

Thanks for the suggestions, and the link.