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Questions for doula

tiffmatttiffmatt member
in Natural Birth

DH and I know we want a natural birth and are looking to hire a doula to help me with pain management.  We are meeting with one in the next month, but I have no clue what to ask her.  She is certified, so my main concern is just getting a feel for her and seeing it seems like it will work out, but I am horrible at chit-chat and getting to know people (this is why I spend my days in a cubicle).  Any tips on interviewing a doula?

image BFP #3 02/14/2012 - EDD 10/20/2012 Started prometrium right away, hoping this one sticks Beta #1 (02/15) 37. Torrey born 10/21/2012 w 6lb 14oz, 19.5" long Beta #2 (02/17) 87 Doubling time 38.91 Beta #3 (02/22) 495 Doubling time 47.84 Beta #4 (02/28) 8108 Doubling time 35.70 ~grow baby grow~ Updated EDD 10/26 BFP #2 01/10/2012 - EDD 09/18/2012, Chemical Pregnancy ended 01/13/2012 BFP #1 12/03/2011 - EDD 08/06/2012, Natural M/C 12/13/2011
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Re: Questions for doula

  • lauriedupuislauriedupuis member

    If you search here on the website for doula interview, there is a sample list of questions for interviewing doulas.  I used that as a guide and the questions out of Ina May's book then just tailored them to what our priorities are.

    I think the important thing is to not ask yes/no questions if possible so you get a good look at their philosophies.  For example, instead of asking 'Will you advocate my NB birth plans if a nurse is being pushy about meds/induction?" ask "How will you help advocate my NB plans....." and let her tell you about her experience with such a situation and her plan for helping you deal with it. 

    Also, think about what your main concerns or reasons are for having a doula.  Mine was that my husband's travel schedule is unknown and I could be laboring at home alone.  We wanted her to come to the house when I started labor to stay with me until I had to go to the hospital, so of course that was a question as to whether or not she would do that and secondly, we have 2 large dogs - is she allergic/afraid, etc.  Another biggie for me was how many clients she took on near my due date and under what circumstances would she NOT be available and what is the backup plan in that instance?  



     

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