Top 20 Doula Interview Questions and Answers
Choosing the right doula for your birthing experience can be tough. That’s why it’s important to ask interview questions that will help you find the best match. Here are the top 20 doula interview questions and answers.
1. How long have you been a doula?
A: I’ve been a doula for ____ years.
2. What inspired you to become a doula?
A: I was inspired to become a doula because ____.
3. What types of births have you attended?
A: I’ve attended vaginal births, cesarean sections, home births, water births, etc.
4. What’s your philosophy on childbirth?
A: My philosophy on childbirth is ____.
5. What makes you stand out as a doula?
A: My ability to ____ sets me apart.
6. What’s your approach to pain management?
A: My approach to pain management includes ____.
7. What’s your availability leading up to the birth?
A: My availability leading up to the birth is ____.
8. Do you have a backup doula?
A: Yes, I have a backup doula in case of an emergency.
9. What’s your fee?
A: My fee is ____.
10. What does your fee cover?
A: My fee covers ____.
11. Are there any additional fees?
A: No, there are no additional fees.
12. Do you offer a payment plan?
A: Yes, I offer a payment plan.
13. What’s your policy on refunds?
A: My policy on refunds is ____.
14. How do you support partners during labor?
A: I support partners during labor by ____.
15. What’s your availability during labor?
A: My availability during labor is ____.
16. What’s your experience with breastfeeding support?
A: My experience with breastfeeding support includes ____.
17. Do you provide any postpartum support?
A: Yes, I provide postpartum support.
18. What sets you apart from other doulas?
A: What sets me apart from other doulas is ____.
19. Can you provide references?
A: Yes, I can provide references.
20. Is there anything else you’d like me to know?
A: Yes, I’d like you to know that ____.
Ask these questions to find the right doula for your birthing experience. Remember, don’t be afraid to be picky!
How to Prepare for Doula Interview
As you prepare for the arrival of your baby, you may have considered hiring a doula to support you during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Choosing the right doula is important, and that begins with the interview process.
1. Research the Doula
Before the interview, research the doula you're meeting with. Look at their website, social media pages, and reviews from former clients.
Consider what qualifications and certifications the doula has. Do they have experience working with women in your specific situation?
Think about what qualities you are looking for in a doula, and see if the doula you're interviewing matches those criteria.
2. Prepare Your Questions
Make a list of questions that you want to ask the doula during the interview. Think about what's most important to you, such as their experience, availability, and fees.
Ask for specifics about their philosophy and approach to childbirth, and what support they'll offer during labor and delivery.
Don't be afraid to ask for references from former clients of the doula, so you can learn more about their experience.
3. Be Prepared with Your Own Information
You'll want to share with the doula what you're looking for, so they can determine if they're a good fit for you.
Consider discussing your birth plan, fears, and expectations for childbirth. You can also share any concerns that you have about the process.
Be honest and transparent about any medical risks or conditions that could impact your pregnancy or delivery, so your doula can help you prepare.
4. Take Note of the Doula's Responses
During the interview, pay attention to how the doula responds to your questions.
Are they actively listening to you and understanding your concerns?
Are they responsive to your needs, and can they offer creative solutions to challenges that you might face?
5. Consider Your Gut Feelings
Ultimately, you'll want to choose a doula that you feel comfortable with and trust.
After the interview, take some time to reflect on your conversation with the doula.
Were they warm and friendly? Did you connect with them on a personal level?
Choosing a doula is a deeply personal decision, so it's important to listen to your intuition.
By following these tips, you can have a successful interview with a potential doula and feel confident in your decision.
Failing to Make Eye Contact
Lack of eye contact can be interpreted as a lack of confidence or disinterest. Try to maintain regular, but natural, eye contact during the interview to show engagement.