When to hire a doula?

[LindyGirl]

At what point in a pregnancy should someone start interviewing doulas for their birth? I'm at the tail end of the first tri, and wondering if I should start looking now, or if later in the pregnancy is more normal.

[sjdragonfly]

I was wondering about this as well. I've had a few recommendations from friends, but I don't know if it's too early to start interviewing them or not. (I'm at the beginning of my second trimester.) I'm worried they might get booked up or something for the time around my due date, but really have no idea how they even deal with that scheduling.

[LindyGirl]

I'm thinking the same thing! I don't want them to get too busy, but I don't want to jump the gun, either, and have them be like, "Who are you again?" when I need them. ;)

[cat13]

You might want to start now, that way you can have plenty of time to interview a few and find a good fit. Especially if you live in small community or a place with only a few doulas around.  Plus, you'll have more time to get to know her.

[LeAnn A Doula]

You can hire your doula at any time during your pregnancy. If you find one early, you'll have secured your spot w her. A doula will typically schedule up to 4 mamas in a given month and they work w backup just in case two babies choose the same birthday. Some doulas offer other services as well, like massage or prenatal yoga. Getting an early start gives you more time to take advantage of these opportunities to get to know your doula. That said, I've known mamas who decide to hire a doula a week before their guess date. It always seems to work out for the best! Feel free to message me if you have other doula questions.

[LeAnn A Doula]

You can hire your doula at any time during your pregnancy. If you find one early, you'll have secured your spot w her. A doula will typically schedule up to 4 mamas in a given month and they work w backup just in case two babies choose the same birthday. Some doulas offer other services as well, like massage or prenatal yoga. Getting an early start gives you more time to take advantage of these opportunities to get to know your doula. That said, I've known mamas who decide to hire a doula a week before their guess date. It always seems to work out for the best! Feel free to message me if you have other doula questions.

[LivingSky]

I think the earlier, the better. You can then meet with your doula numerous times throughout your pregnancy and really develop a connection with her, and she will have more time to get a feel for who you are and what you want.

[LindyGirl]

This is good to know! Thank you!

[deborahbgkelly]

I'm planning on going to a Meet the Doulas Night in February and I'm not due until July.

[beccabus]

I've already met with my doula!! :)

[Lauren82]

I would say ASAP because some doulas book up fast.