Top Tips for a Hiring Doula!

So you've decided to hire a Doula to support your pregnancy, labour and birth,.....might I add, you've made an excellent choice!

While Doulas are becoming more mainstream, as the benefits become more widely solidified and known, there are a surprising number of us.  So choosing the right fit for you can be overwhelming.  I want to help you make this important decision.  Here are my top tips;

• Don't interview too many people. Faces will start to blend together and you might get lost in the weeds trying to decide.  My advice, interview 2 or 3 people.  Then interview more if you really don’t feel great about anyone you’ve met.
• Focus on the feel!  The feel is more important than how many births someone has supported or what organization they trained with.  A good connection is the foundation of the relationship you and your partner and your Doula will form.  The Doula's energy and presence should help you relax and instill confidence.
• What is the Doula's birth philosophy?  A Doula should be objective and not have an opinion on how you should labour or birth your baby.  A Doula provides current evidence-based information and helps parents build and support the birth plan that works for you!  A Doula cannot guarantee specific birth outcomes, but they should be doing their very best to help you achieve your birth goals,  and have the flexibility to help you adjust to any unforeseen changes.

Having a Doula improves outcomes and enhances your birth experience.  Don't overthink it, follow your intuition and you will find the right Doula for you!