Hiring a doula - The Process
You’ve peed on the stick and you’ve decided you want to look into getting a doula/birth worker. You’ve probably started looking into the different doulas in your area, maybe you’ve reached out to the Red Deer Doula Association to see who’s available, but now what?
This is where things can start to feel a little overwhelming for some people. We have a TON of fantastic birth workers in the Red Deer/Central Alberta region who are phenomenal at what they do, so let me help you break down the process and get you started on finding a doula that fits you and your partner’s values and ideal birth!
Step One:
Make a list of core values that are important to you and your partner. Are you the type of person who values a strong connection with those you interact with? Are you more relaxed? Are you someone who thrives on structure and a plan? Is education really important to you? While this may seem like a weird thing to do, this helps you get an idea of what type of doula style you are looking for!
Step Two:
Using the list you made in step one, go through some doula websites and profiles and make note of the people who seem to align with what you are looking for. Take notes; what feelings did you get while looking through their pages, what quotes/words did they use that resonated, does their package have what you’re looking for?
Step Three:
Go over your notes and pick 3-4 (or more if you really want!) doulas that you think fit the values/image you have of your birth and set some consults up! You likely already have a pretty good idea of which birth worker you want to go ahead with, but we recommended you meet with multiple! You may find that the person you thought was the best fit might not be after you meet with them.
Step Four:
The consult. Meet up at a local coffee shop or park and chat! Ask about their packages, when they go on call, how long they’ve been a doula, and what their style of support is! Don’t be afraid to come with a list of questions, we’re used to it and are happy to answer any question you have!
After the consult, make a note on your phone about what you liked about them, if they made you feel comfortable and heard, and your overall thoughts.
Step Five:
Compare the list of values you made in step one with the notes you made after each consult! Pick the doula that fits that list and also made you feel safe/connected. Birth is a physical, mental and spiritual experience, its sooo dang important that you feel comfortable with whoever you pick. Reach out to them and your new doula will take it from there.
Have any more questions about the general process of hiring a doula that I didn’t cover? Feel free to send me an email or message on Instagram and I’m happy to chat! Or maybe you’re wondering about some specific questions to ask? Hit this link and it’ll take you to my blog post about Questions for your Doula Consults!
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