Finding a Doula: Know What You Want!

When you start your search for a doula, navigating finding the right one can feel overwhelming if not paralyzing. With the number of doulas increasing, how do you know if the doula you are hiring is the right one for you? Over the next few days, I'm going to share three failproof strategies to make sure your doula is the best fit for you.

Woman searching for a doula online.

First, you have to know what you want.

Where are you delivering your baby?

What are your goals for this birth?

What role do you want your doula to play?

What role does your partner or support person want to take?

What feel/vibe do you desire for the birth space?

What makes you feel safest and most comfortable?

These questions are critical as they help guide you to a doula whose birth philosophy matches your own.

Some doulas only take births at certain locations or venues. While some doulas support births anywhere, there are some who prefer only home births or only hospital. Many doulas will not support an unassisted birth.

While some doulas are comfortable in the medical environment and with epidurals, others are not. If you are planning medical pain management for your birth, be sure your doula is comfortable with and supportive of that.

What support measures do you want during birth? Essential oils? Tens unit? Comfort? Advocating assistance? As your doula which support measures she provides and make sure it matches your needs.

If you have a support person who wants to be involved, ask your doula how she interacts with them in the birth space and how she might empower their involvement. Doulas aren't the only superheroes in the birth space!

Your aura (to borrow a genAlpha term) at your birth will be greatly impacted by the personalities that you bring into that space. If you want a relaxed atmosphere, hire a relaxed doula. If you want someone managing details, hire a detailed one. If you want an ethereal/feel good space, hire a doula that jive with that vibe.

What makes you feel safest and most comfortable will be critically important as safety is a precursor of a healthy labor pattern. Do you need a doula with knowledge who can help you navigate the confusing medical system? Or do you need a doula who will nurture you like a mother?

Knowing what you need and desire before you start interviewing doulas can make a tidal wave of a difference in narrowing the playing field. Many doulas you can vet out simply over their website.

Ultimately, ask around. Get referrals, and interview several to find the one that works best for your needs in this beautiful transition into motherhood.