Questions to Ask a Postpartum Doula (and Yourself) Before Hiring

BY ELISE SILVER AND HEATHER RUSSELL

Welcoming a postpartum doula into your family’s life can be a transformative experience, providing much-needed support and guidance during the delicate postpartum period. However, finding the right fit requires careful consideration and thoughtful reflection. To help navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled key questions to ask both potential postpartum doulas and yourself before making a commitment.

Questions to Ask a Potential Postpartum Doula

1. How do you view your role as a postpartum doula?
   Understanding the doula’s perspective on their role can help align expectations and ensure compatibility with your family’s needs.

2. What experience and/or training do you have to support me in my postpartum goals?
   Sharing your goals for the postpartum period allows the doula to assess their ability to meet your specific needs and tailor their support accordingly

3. Do you participate in continuing education as a doula, and how?
   Continued learning is essential in any profession, including doula care. Inquiring about the doula’s commitment to ongoing education demonstrates their dedication to providing high-quality support.

4. How do you handle concerns or issues that may arise during the postpartum period?
   Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial in any supportive relationship. Understanding how the doula approaches challenges can help ensure a smooth and positive experience.

5. What is your definition of non-judgmental support, and how does it manifest in your practice?
   Postpartum doulas should provide support without imposing their personal beliefs or preferences on parents. Clarifying the doula’s stance on various parenting choices can help ensure a supportive and inclusive environment.

6. How do you prioritize the parent’s well-being during this time?
   Prioritizing parental well-being demonstrates a holistic approach to postpartum support. By recognizing the importance of parental self-care and providing emotional and practical assistance, a postpartum doula can create a nurturing environment where parents feel supported and empowered to navigate the challenges of early parenthood.

7. What household help are you willing to provide?
   Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities in a postpartum doula, particularly as needs may change over time. Understanding the doula’s willingness to assist with household tasks can help set expectations and ensure a smooth and supportive postpartum experience.

Questions to Reflect on Before Hiring a Postpartum Doula

1. Are you open to establishing boundaries and fostering a professional yet intimate relationship with your doula?
   Recognizing the unique nature of the doula-client relationship and being open to establishing boundaries is essential for a positive experience.

2. What are your goals in seeking postpartum support, and what characteristics do you value in a doula?
   Clarifying your goals and preferences can help guide your search for a compatible doula and ensure a mutually beneficial partnership.

3. What is your vision of daily interactions with your doula, and how do you envision their role in your postpartum journey?
   Envisioning the day-to-day dynamics with your doula can help set expectations and ensure alignment with your needs and preferences.

4. Have you considered financial goals and the level of support you require from a doula?
   Understanding your financial constraints and desired level of support can help narrow down your options and prioritize your needs.

5. Are you comfortable entrusting your baby’s care to a doula, and do you have any specific preferences or concerns?
   Trust is fundamental in the doula-client relationship, particularly when it comes to caring for your newborn. Reflecting on your comfort level and addressing any concerns can help foster a sense of security and trust.

Hiring a postpartum doula is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and thoughtful reflection. By asking the right questions and reflecting on your own needs and preferences, you can find a doula who not only meets your expectations but also enriches your postpartum experience with compassion, support, and guidance.