Thinking about hiring a postpartum doula? Setting up an interview is the best way to find out if someone is the right fit for your family. Here are the questions I’d ask, plus why each one matters.
Training and experience
1. Are you trained as a postpartum doula? There are some wonderful organizations that train postpartum doulas, often with coursework and hands-on experience. After training, some doulas choose to certify and some don’t. Both are completely valid!
2. What other skills or training do you bring? Many doulas have extra expertise, like lactation support, infant massage, belly binding, massage therapy, or even nursing. These can add a lot to the support you get.
3. What’s your experience with breast/chestfeeding support? Some doulas are Breastfeeding Educators, CLCs, IBCLCs, or Breastfeeding Peer Counselors. Many others have lots of hands-on experience supporting feeding families.
4. Do you have experience with postpartum mood disorders? Doulas aren’t mental health providers, but many are trained to recognize the signs of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders and can connect you with the right support.
5. Do you have current CPR certification? If this matters to you, be sure to ask!
Who they are and how they work
6. What drew you to postpartum work, and what do you love most about it? This is one of my favorite questions. It gives you a feel for their personality and what they’re most passionate about, whether that’s feeding support, education, or helping with the day-to-day flow of life with a newborn.
7. What’s your philosophy on supporting families? This helps you see whether their approach lines up with your family’s values and parenting style.
8. How do you see your role in our home? Hearing how they describe their role helps you picture how they’ll fit into your family’s postpartum season.
Logistics
9. What specific services do you offer? Postpartum doulas vary a lot. Some focus on baby care, while others also help with laundry, cooking, errands, and more. Get clear on what’s included.
10. What does your availability look like? Ask about minimum hours, which days or nights they work, and how flexible they can be.
11. Do you have other clients due around the same time? Many postpartum doulas work with several families at once. It’s helpful to know how they manage their schedule so you get the care you need.
12. Do you have a backup doula? Life happens! Knowing there’s a plan B brings real peace of mind.
13. Can we reach out with questions before and after baby arrives? Find out whether they’re available for questions between scheduled visits, and how (text, email, phone).
14. What are your fees, and do you accept insurance or Medicaid? Ask about rates, packages, deposits or retainers, and whether any of your care might be covered.
15. Can you provide references? Always ask. This is such a vulnerable time, and you want to feel completely comfortable inviting someone into your home.
I hope these help you find a doula who feels like a great fit. And if you’d like to interview me, here’s what that process looks like. 💛
