I want a post partum doula

[dara00]

What kind of questions should I ask when I interview them?

[wombatclay]

Well, you can ask what sort of background they have...for example, are the certified? Some doula programs, like DONA, have specific training/certification programs for post-partum doulas. But other women are "direct entry" pp doulas. I'm not saying one is better than another, but it would be worth asking about WHY they do this, WHAT training they have, and how much experience they have.

Find out what services they offer...are they trained as an LC? Have they nursed their own children and for how long? When you meet them do you feel like you would be comfortable with that woman helping you nurse (so seeing you topless or touching your breast/babe)? Ask a few questions about difficult nursing situations (and know the answer ahead of time) and see what they say.

Do they clean or provide housework help, and if so, what do they offer or specifically not do? Will they cook or heat ready made meals if necessary? Dust/vacuum? Take care of a pet or amuse older sibs? Do they stay "indoors" or would they weed the garden, water the flowers, pick up or drop off the mail at the post office, take the older sib to the park or watch them in the back yard? What role do they see themselves playing in your babymoon?

Do they have other yummy skills? For example, do they know post partum massage, reflexology, body work, aromatherapy? Are they known for their foot rubs or baby massage (and will they teach you) or do they provide wonderful herbal bath mixes? Can they whip up some mama care tea blend cusomized for you, or do they offer guided relaxation or something else that would help you relax and enjoy your time with babe?

How long will they stay each day and how much do they charge? Do they have extra charges for specific things (like looking after an older sib, or walking the dog, or folding laundry, or whatever).

A lot of post partum doulas start out as birth doulas but switch to post partum since the hours are a lot more predictable! I know several (and have considered going back to certify as a post partum doula through DONA now that I'll have two little ones) and most are really wonderful women....but they all offer something different. So focus on what you would love to have and don't be afraid to ask!

Good luck!

[dara00]

thanks, this is more helpful than what I found online!

[Shell_Ell]

Well that post was pretty thorough so I don't think there's much to be added. But you know what else... as a PP doula I can say trust your gut. If you vibe with someone that will mean a lot. I know people have chosen me in the past because I was far more laid back/informal than other doulas. I guess it just depends what you want.

Good luck... you will be so happy you decided to have one!

[dara00]

hey shell, too bad you don't live closer or I'd choose you!

[Iamhappy2BAmom]

I second the whole vibe thing. I was down to three people. One was very sisterly and down to earth. One was very very knowledgeable and staunch advocate of a lot of causes and one was laid back and motherly. All of them highly qualifies and had all the pre-requisites you are told to look for in a pp doula. I decided to go with the more laid back motherly person who basically said. "Let's play it by ear- if you decide you've got the hang of it and don't me for the full night then fine. It's up to you." That and the fact she seemed to be open to whatever I decide to do giving me pros and cons of things without weighing it down with guilt and judgement- which I had already gotten enough of in my 12 week birthing class.
I guess I was looking for a mother/grandmother figure who would help me out at a time I felt the most lost. Someone to guide me with no judgements.

[Shell_Ell]

Originally Posted by dara00

hey shell, too bad you don't live closer or I'd choose you!

Think I'll be a little busy anyway.