10 questions to ask a doula before you hire them
Meeting doulas and not sure what to ask? These ten questions cover experience, availability, backup plans, and fees — so you can choose with confidence.
Most doulas offer a free introductory call or meeting before you commit. It's as much about chemistry as credentials — you're choosing someone who may be with you at one of the most intimate moments of your life. These questions will help you use that meeting well.
Experience and approach
What drew you to doula work, and how long have you been practising? Passion and experience both matter — but a newer doula with great training can be a wonderful (and often more affordable) choice.
Have you supported births like the one I'm hoping for? Home birth, hospital birth, VBAC, planned caesarean — experience with your setting helps.
How do you support birth partners? A good doula lifts your partner up rather than replacing them.
Availability and backup
When does your on-call period start and end? Most birth doulas go on call around 38 weeks until the baby arrives.
What happens if you're ill or at another birth? Reputable doulas have a backup arrangement — ask to meet or at least know who the backup is.
How many clients do you take per month? Fewer clients usually means more availability for you.
Practicalities
What exactly is included in your package? Number of prenatal visits, hours at the birth, postpartum follow-up, and how you can contact them between visits.
What are your fees and payment terms? Ask about deposits, payment plans, and the refund policy if plans change.
Do you have a contract and insurance? Both protect you as much as them.
Can you share testimonials or references? Hearing from past families is often the most reassuring part.
Trust your gut
After the questions, ask yourself the simplest one: did I feel calmer talking to this person? The right doula for you is the one whose presence already feels like support.
