When to hire a doula

The sooner the better! The first step is researching doulas, our benefits, and the positive outcomes regarding birth & postpartum. During your research you’ll begin to know whether or not having a doula will be for you. 

Once you realize you definitely need a doula, the next step is finding the doula right for YOU! It’s also important that you’re a good fit for your doula, this way EVERYONE is benefited because your doula will be apart of YOUR team. 

Try to find doulas in your area and get to know them! Interview several doulas (or not, when you click you click). It’s important that you let the doula know whether you choose to hire them or not so they can keep their schedules & availability updated as needed. This also ensures your doula has you booked for the time you need as some doulas are booked out months in advance. 

While getting to know doulas in your area, also get to know their prices. The great thing about getting your doula affairs together early is it allows you the time to figure out finances. Many doulas offer sliding scales, payment plans, accept insurance, FSA or HSA, barter services, etc, see if your doula can work with you in any way, if not, keep looking!

At the end of the day, any doula will have the basic knowledge of pregnancy & postpartum. What really matters is WHO will you be comfortable with in that most intimate time, who do you feel will confidently advocate for you, who do you feel you can unpack and vent to in a judgment free zone? THESE are the important questions that should be asked during interviews/consults. 

Whether you just found out you’re pregnant or you’re further along in your pregnancy, there’s never a wrong time to hire a doula. If you feel like you will benefit, in ANY way from the support of a doula... hire a doula! We all want a happy & healthy birth outcome led by a whole lot of informed decisions!