Questions to Ask a Postpartum Doula (Before Hiring Them)

Hiring a postpartum doula can be a big investment for a family, especially a family that is in need of help ASAP. It is so important to know that your choice in hiring a doula is the right one.

Postpartum doulas are individuals who help families in the fourth trimester (the first 12 weeks after giving birth or welcoming a baby into the family), during the postpartum period. Trained postpartum doulas oftentimes have evidence-based knowledge, experience, resources, and are unbiased in their approaches to support and care. Postpartum doulas are not medical professionals; they are, however, professionals trained in emotional, physical, and practical postpartum care.

Postpartum doulas can be hired in advance-- before baby comes-- or may also be considered when parents are in the thick of it and struggling with all of the additional duties that come with a new addition to the family. No matter which camp you or a loved one may be in, having a list of questions and considerations to ask a postpartum doula before committing to signing a contract is key.

Below are some questions you can ask a postpartum doula:

• What experience do you have supporting families (with multiples/disabilities/complex needs etc.)? Adoptive/blended/surrogate families?

• What different types of services do you offer? In person or virtual support?

• When do your services begin postpartum? Can start dates be flexible (in case baby arrives earlier or later than expected)?

• What services are included in your fees? (If you have a specific need in mind, ask it here!)

• What is your experience in breastfeeding support?

• What relevant/supplementary training do you have?

• Do you have current CPR training?

• How long have you been a doula?

• What are some of your hobbies/interests/passions?

• Why did you want to become a postpartum doula?

• What are my options for when you are not available (due to illness, personal reasons, or unforeseen circumstances)? Do you work with other postpartum doulas who can help in these situations?

• Do you have a refund policy?

• Do you have a minimum time obligation for your services?

• What are your fees? Do they vary depending on day or overnight support? Do you have any deals/packages?

• Can you provide references?

• Are you comfortable supporting _______? (LGTBQ+ families, specific choices around intended parenting styles, families of specific religious backgrounds, etc.)

There are so many other great questions to ask a postpartum doula around a family's specific circumstances, so don't let this list limit you. Answers to these questions can provide parents with the confidence they need to move forward with hiring the right postpartum doula for their family's needs.

Other tips of note before hiring a doula:

• Many postpartum doulas offer free initial consultations. Take advantage of these meetings and meet with a few postpartum doulas before making your decision.

• Many postpartum doulas who have their own website may have the answers to the above questions listed there. Parents can do their research ahead of time and devote the time in the initial consultation for the questions that weren't answered on the website.

• Some postpartum doulas have a social media presence. Parents can check out social media pages to see if the postpartum doula's personality, priorities, and outlooks are a good match with theirs. to take the next step and interview a postpartum doula?

I hope that these questions and tips help you (and your partner, if relevant) feel ready and confident to take that next step towards hiring a postpartum doula!

All the best,

- Krista, KKH Postpartum Doula