Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Doula
Essential questions to evaluate a doula's experience, approach, availability, and whether they're the right birth support partner for you.
1What is your training and certification background?
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What is your training and certification background?
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Why this works
Ensures they have formal training and credentials from recognized organizations.
2How many births have you attended, and what types—hospital, home, birth center?
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How many births have you attended, and what types—hospital, home, birth center?
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Why this works
Assesses experience level and whether they're familiar with your chosen birth setting.
3What is your philosophy on birth and pain management?
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What is your philosophy on birth and pain management?
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Why this works
Clarifies whether their approach aligns with your values and preferences.
4How do you support someone who wants an unmedicated birth versus an epidural?
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How do you support someone who wants an unmedicated birth versus an epidural?
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Why this works
Shows flexibility and whether they support your choices without judgment.
5What does your prenatal support look like, and how many visits are included?
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What does your prenatal support look like, and how many visits are included?
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Why this works
Clarifies what preparation and relationship-building happens before labor.
6What comfort measures and techniques do you use during labor?
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What comfort measures and techniques do you use during labor?
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Why this works
Reveals their toolkit—massage, positioning, breathing, visualization, etc.
7How do you work with hospital staff, midwives, and doctors?
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How do you work with hospital staff, midwives, and doctors?
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Why this works
Ensures they're collaborative and won't create tension with your medical team.
8What is your availability around my due date, and do you have a backup doula?
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What is your availability around my due date, and do you have a backup doula?
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Why this works
Confirms they'll be there and you're covered if they're unavailable.
9What is your fee structure, and what's included in your services?
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What is your fee structure, and what's included in your services?
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Why this works
Clarifies total cost and whether payment plans or sliding scale options exist.
10How do you support partners during labor, and what role do they play?
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How do you support partners during labor, and what role do they play?
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Why this works
Shows whether they empower partners or take over their support role.
11What happens if my birth plan changes or I need a C-section?
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What happens if my birth plan changes or I need a C-section?
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Why this works
Assesses adaptability and whether they'll support you through unexpected outcomes.
12What postpartum support do you offer, if any?
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What postpartum support do you offer, if any?
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Why this works
Clarifies whether they provide follow-up care or resources after birth.
13Can you provide references from recent clients?
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Can you provide references from recent clients?
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Why this works
Allows you to hear firsthand experiences and vet their work.
14How do you handle situations where medical intervention becomes necessary?
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How do you handle situations where medical intervention becomes necessary?
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Why this works
Shows whether they trust medical professionals or resist necessary care.
15What is your policy on communication during labor—are you reachable 24/7 as my due date approaches?
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What is your policy on communication during labor—are you reachable 24/7 as my due date approaches?
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Why this works
Sets expectations for accessibility and responsiveness.
16How do you support someone experiencing a difficult or traumatic birth?
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How do you support someone experiencing a difficult or traumatic birth?
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Why this works
Reveals emotional intelligence and crisis support skills.
17Do you have experience with multiples, VBAC, or high-risk pregnancies?
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Do you have experience with multiples, VBAC, or high-risk pregnancies?
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Why this works
Ensures they're equipped for your specific circumstances if applicable.
18What is your approach to evidence-based care and informed consent?
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What is your approach to evidence-based care and informed consent?
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Why this works
Shows whether they prioritize autonomy and informed decision-making.
19How do you practice self-care and avoid burnout in this demanding work?
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How do you practice self-care and avoid burnout in this demanding work?
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Why this works
Ensures they're sustainable and present, not overextended.
20What drew you to doula work, and what do you love most about it?
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What drew you to doula work, and what do you love most about it?
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Why this works
Reveals passion, values, and whether they're in it for the right reasons.
Finding the Right Doula
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.