Find the Right Doula for Your Birth Journey

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most transformative experiences. Whether you’re preparing for your first birth or adding to your growing family, having the right support can make all the difference. That’s where a doula can help. A doula is trained professional who provides emotional, physical and informational support to a birthing person before, during and after delivery. 

But how do you find the right doula for your family? This guide walks you through the steps to help you make an informed and confident choice.

Step 1: Create a List of Doulas to Interview

Start by gathering names of potential doulas:

• Use a trusted directory: Visit www.dona.org for certified doulas in your area. You can also refer to the provider directory for your insurance plan.
• Ask friends and family about their experiences.
• Consult your OB-GYN or family provider for referrals: They often work closely with doulas and may know who aligns well with your birth plan.
• Tap into local networks: Parenting groups, childbirth educators and community centers are excellent resources for referrals.

Step 2: Schedule Interviews

Once you’ve identified a few doulas, reach out via email or phone. This is a great way to introduce yourself and ask about: 

• Their availability around your due date
• Their fee structure and what’s included
• Whether they offer a free consultation 

Tip: Choose a neutral, public location like a coffee shop for your first meeting. If you’re interviewing multiple doulas, you can schedule them back-to-back or space them out over a few days.

Step 3: Conduct Your Interview

The interview is your chance to assess compatibility and get to know the doula’s personality, philosophy and approach.  Here are some questions to guide your conversation:

Background and Experience:

• Where did you receive your training, and are your certified?
• How many births have you attended?
• What types of births have you supported (hospital, home, medicated, unmedicated)?
• What techniques do you use during labor?

Support Style:

• How do you support partners?
• How do you work with medical staff?
• What’s your philosophy on birth?
• What’s included in prenatal and postpartum visits?
• When do you go “on call” for births?
• Do you have a backup doula?
• What is your fee, and what does it include?
• What are the next steps if I decide to hire you?

Logistics and Availability:

• What does your contract include?
• What are your cancellation policies?
• What happens in the event of a long labor or early delivery? 

Step 4: Reflect and Decide

After your interviews, take time to reflect. Ask yourself:

• Did I feel comfortable with the doula?
• Did they communicate well with me and my family?
• Do I trust this person to work collaboratively with my birth team?
• Was the doula knowledgeable and confident?
• Do I feel they can support me in vulnerable moments?
• Did I feel a genuine connection?

Trust your intuition. Sometimes, you just know when someone is the right fit.

Step 5: Build a Strong Partnership

Once you’ve chosen your doula, the relationship begins. A successful partnership is built on:

• Clear communication: Be open about your hopes, fears and expectations.
• Mutual respect: Your doula is there to support your choices, not make them for you.
• Preparation: Attend prenatal meetings, discuss your birth plan and talk through “what if” scenarios.

Your doula is your advocate, your guide and a steady presence for you as you go through one of life’s most transformative experiences.

Choosing a doula is about more than credentials. It’s about connection, trust and shared values. A great doula will empower you, advocate for your wishes, and help create a calm, supportive environment for your birth. By following these steps and asking thoughtful questions, you’ll be well on your way to building a partnership that nurtures and supports your family through this incredible journey.

Accessing Doula Services

For more information, visit Doula Program.