If you hired doulas...

What questions do you have for them, or what do you discuss with them?

This is baby #2 for us, so far all I've discussed what happened the first time (we didn't use doulas last time, what I didn't like and what I didn't want to happen this time around), that we're going for a VBAC and struggling w/BFing the first time. Next time I see them I'll ask them about my lower back (any stretches etc that I could do to help) because it's bothering me a little bit.


I'm wondering what else I should ask them about, ask them for help with etc before its close to baby time. Any suggestions?

Message edited 4/9/2013 10:44:28 AM.

Re: If you hired doulas...

I had my heart set on a natural, drug free birth. So we asked her what she would do in difference scenarios - ie. stalled labor, back labor etc to keep me focused on my goal. We also asked her to give us specifics on what role she plays during labor since she is not a midwife. We just let her talk about her experiences, different obstacles she's encountered and ways they were able to overcome them.

She was also able to give me specific suggestions for the days/weeks leading up to labor to prepare my body - different exercises I could do, tricks to get better sleep, etc.

Re: If you hired doulas...

Re: If you hired doulas...

ITA with the previous poster; she gave great advice.

I asked:
What is her birth philosophy? Is she familiar with a specific birth theory (Lamaze, Bradley, Hyptno birting, etc?)
What does she recommend for pain relief/focus? How would she feel if you chose to birth differently than her suggestions?
What comfort measures does she provide? Does she have a back up?
How many in person pre natal visits does she attend? What happens at those visits?
How much does she charge to attend a birth? What kind of payment schedule is expected?