Postpartum Doula Services: What to Look for When Hiring a Professional

Hiring a postpartum doula can be stressful and time consuming, especially when you’re not quite sure what to look for. Below are a few things to look for when hiring a postpartum doula that can make the process a bit less stressful:

1. What certifications & trainings do they have?

Be sure to inquire about what certifications and trainings a postpartum doula has. If trained and certified, be sure to ask about where and what organization they trained through. Additional certifications, like Infant/adult CPR, are great to be on the lookout for in the doula that you choose to hire.

2. What’s Their Previous Doula History?

Don’t be afraid to ask about previous clientele and references if they’re available. They can offer honest opinions and reviews of your potential postpartum doula, helping to put your mind at ease and make decision making easier.

3. Will They Have a Back-up Doula?

Life happens and that’s no exception for a postpartum doula; people get sick and emergencies happen. The best doula is a prepared doula. Be sure to ask about whether or not they will have a back-up doula. In the event that they will have a back-up and you decide to hire them, make sure you meet with the back-up doula to make sure you’re comfortable with them.

4. What Services Will They Offer?

Cooking, cleaning, baby care, etc? Every postpartum doula is different and offers different services. Some, like Divinity Doula Postpartum Care, even offer add-ons like lactation!

5. Are there other clients due around the same time as you?

Many postpartum doulas will have more than one client at any given time. Asking this question will allow you to find out hey they go about balancing more than one family at a time.

6. Do you have compatibility with them?

Making sure that you feel comfortable and at ease with your postpartum doula is extremely important. You’ll be spending a lot of time with them and you’ll be in one of the most vulnerable states of your life so be sure you find the right fit for you!