A doula is a knowledgeable, experienced birth companion – she provides prenatal support, offers emotional support, encouragement and wisdom throughout labour and birth and helps you to establish your breastfeeding relationship.

Questions to ask a prospective doula.

• Is she certified?
• Does she provide prenatal and/or postpartum visits?
• What can you expect during these visits, if offered?
• How many births has she attended?
• Can she provide references?
• What form of training has she had?
• What types of births has she witnessed (Cesarean, epidural, intervention free, VBAC, teen birth, etc.)?
• Her fee? And does she have a sliding scale or other arrangements available?
• Has she ever worked with your care provider or at your place of birth?
• Does she has back-up arrangements available?
• What will her role be in early labour?
• Will she provide labour support at your home prior to going to the place of birth?
• Is she familiar with many methods of childbirth?
• How does she define her role during labour and birth?
• Do I like and trust her?