Fifteen Questions for Your Postpartum Doula
Hey there! So, you're considering having a postpartum doula, and I think that's an awesome decision! When it comes to finding the right one for you, setting up an interview is key. Here are some questions to kick off the conversation:
Are you trained as a postpartum doula? You know, there are some fantastic organizations out there that offer training for postpartum doulas. It involves a lot of hands-on experience and some good reading. After the training, they can choose to certify – some do, some don't, and that's cool.
Got any other cool skills or training? Some doulas have extra training in things like breastfeeding, infant massage, or even belly binding. Others might bring in skills like being a licensed massage therapist or having a nursing degree. It's like a bag of tricks!
How about breastfeeding – any experience or training? You've got those certified Breastfeeding Educators, CLCs, IBCLCs, and Breastfeeding Peers. Most doulas, at the very least, have firsthand breastfeeding experience and have helped lots of others.
Tell us a bit about yourself and why you love being a postpartum doula. I love asking these personal questions because they really give you a feel for the doula's vibe. It's like a sneak peek into their character and what makes them tick.
What's the most exciting part of being a postpartum doula for you? Another fun question to understand what the doula is super passionate about. Is it breastfeeding, education, or maybe just keeping everything running smoothly? How does that align with what you need?
What's your philosophy on supporting families and parenting? This one's a golden opportunity to see how the doula rolls. You want someone who's all about supporting YOUR style of parenting. No one-size-fits-all here!
How do you see your role as a postpartum doula? Again, more insight into their personality – a great way to get to know them better.
What's the deal with scheduling? Any minimum hours or specific working days? Different doulas have different schedules. Some have a minimum of 4 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Asking these questions helps you figure out if their availability matches your needs.
Any other families due around the same time as me? Postpartum doulas usually juggle multiple clients. If they do have someone else around the same time, find out how they handle it.
Got a backup doula? Emergencies happen, and it's good to know there's a backup plan in place. What's their deal if they can't make it?
What services do you provide? Do you clean, cook, do laundry, run errands, baby care, etc.? Not all postpartum doulas offer the same care. Clarify with the postpartum doula as to what services they provide while working with a family.
May we call you anytime before and after birth with questions or concerns? You may have questions before baby arrives, and it's important to know if you can reach your postpartum doula outside of work hours.
Do you have experience with moms experiencing postpartum mood disorders? Are trained to help recognize postpartum mood disorders? While postpartum doulas are NOT medical professionals or therapists, they do have training in how to identify possible mood disorders. It’s important to know what they do when they suspect a mood disorder and how they tell the family.
Do you have current infant/adult CPR training? Again, if this is important to you as parents, then ask the doula.
Do you have references we can check? Checking references is a big one. Remember, you are inviting a person into your home to work with your family at a very vulnerable time in your lives. It is important that you feel comfortable with the postpartum doulas. There will be times that you may want to rest or shower, and the doula will be alone with the newborn and/or other children. Put your mind at ease and make a few calls.
And there you have it! Happy doula hunting! 😊☕
