Finding a doula... questions to ask...

[kblackstone444]

I have no labor coach, no family in the area, no real friends, the baby's farher is... something I can't post here... etc. I've been worrying myself sick about the possibility of getting dropped off at the hospital, laboring and delivering all by myself, and then calling for a ride home several days later. SO I advertised on Craigslist for a Doula or Midwife who would be willing to do it for free.

I just got an email from someone who seems like the real deal- she says she's a doula-in-training and will do it for free 'cause she needs to attend three births before she can get her certificate. I might not have to birth and labor by myself, after all. What should I ask her to see if she's the real deal and if she know what she's doing? What should I tell her about me? If I like her, what will her duties be, technically? And If I like her, is she supposed to meet my doctor, come to appointments or something, or just show up at the hospital when it's time or what?

I hope you Mamas have some good answers for me tonight- I need to email her back tomorrow.

[Aliy]

I would find out what sort of training she has and what her experince is. If she has three births to do I would figure she has done the DONA workshop. I would see what her experince has been with birth and where her thoughts on birth lie. Check out DONA.org they have a questionaire for mom hiring doulas. Generally you will have a prenatal appt or two with her in your home in a neutral area. This will be to discuss what your wishes are for birth and what you would like her to do to help you.

Doulas are there to really help you with comfort measures mental emotional and spiritual. she isn't there for any medical stuff and she isn't there to tell anyone your wishes or speak for you. She is there to empower you and help you. she should have resources for you if you have questions.

definaltley look at the scope of what a doula does it will help you know what to expect and give you tools to know if she would work for you.
You definalty need to see if she works for you. you can also contact differnt organizations to see if there are any other volunteer doulas in your area

[cald1905]

Re: finding a doula

Hi,

DONA International has a list of questions to ask prospective doulas. Please go here: http://www.dona.org/mothers/how_to_hire_a_doula.php for more information.

Congratulations on your pregnancy and upcoming birth of your child.

Best wishes on your parenting journey!

Sandy

[kblackstone444]

Well, haven't sent her a list of questions back- told her I was too tired to think this morning, which I am- but did email her and tell her that I'm interested and I will email her tonight. Then I did an email search... turns out, unless there's someone else with her same name and email, in the same area, she's a MDC Mama. I like this already.

[PoppyMama]

I really hope this works out for you