Understanding the Purpose of a Doula Consultation?

For many families, hiring a birth and/or postpartum doula is at the top of their list after learning they are pregnant. However, carving out the time to locate the perfect fit for your birth team can sometimes feel overwhelming. Most doulas offer a free consultation which lasts about an hour. This can be done in-person or virtually for your convenience. But, what is the real purpose of a doula consultation? Let's unpack the ins and outs of a doula consultation.

Doula Consults Are For Both Sides

A doula consult is for both the potential client and the doula to see if they are a good fit for each other. It is great to have both parents at a consultation so a family can see if everyone works well together. During a consultation both sides will get a chance to share a little about themselves and ask questions to gain an understanding of each other.

Questions to Ask At a Doula Consultation

You should ask any questions which are important to you at a doula consultation. However, here are some starters which most people ask to see if the doula would be a good fit for them.

• What is your philosophy around birth?

• What types of births do you attend, if any limitations. Some doulas only attend homebirths, etc.

• Do you have any expertise in ______ births? Examples could be VBAC births, homebirths, caesarean births, supporting multiples, etc.

• What other services do you offer? The doula might offer bundled services.

• Do you offer payment plans or sliding scale options?

• How many prenatal meetings do you offer? When do you go "on-call", etc.?

Questions The Doula Might Ask You

On the other side, your doula might ask you some simple questions at the doula consultation. Generally, the doula wants to learn what your desires are for your birth, birthing locations, and overall goals for your journey into parenthood. Sometimes, two people just are not a good match for each other and its best to decide that before hiring. Therefore, your doula might ask you to talk a little about any past birth experiences, what led you to hire a doula, and your vision for your current pregnancy.

Ending the Doula Consultation

By the end of a doula consultation, both parties usually have a good idea if they are a good fit. I always encourage potential clients to take their time and interview other doulas. At the end of the day, even if I think we would be a good fit, they might work well with someone else. I always offer to hold their spot in my availability for a few days and check in again around then if I have another inquiry lined up. I also like to send over a copy of my contract for them to read through to help them make their decision.

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If you are seeking a birth or postpartum doula who provides a deep dive into your pregnancy and birth experience; I am here for you. I love connecting with new families during this sacred time in their lives.

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