Doulas: questions to ask potential clients

[gemasita]

I am meeting with my first couple tomorrow (I am still in training - this would be my first certification birth). They have not decided on me yet - we are just getting to know each other. I attended their childbirth class for my certification so I know what they learned and know a little bit about their preference. The class was extremely thorough so I know that they understand the pros and cons of interventions and are wanting a med-free birth (it was a doula that taught the class and she was great).

What questions should I be asking them at this point? I know that there are some things that we can talk about if they do hire me so what's appropriate to ask at this first meeting? As I said, I am not completely starting from scratch with them since we were in the childbirth class together and talked quite a bit. I figure some general questions are appropriate and then just let them ask me questions (and practice my listening skills!).

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[Gray's Mommy]

I always ask the obvious ones (edd, care provider, birthing place, etc) and seem to find out more from the couple if I just shut my mouth & listen :blah I also take my cues from the couple & ask some questions based on what they ask me.

Just be yourself & have fun!! Enjoy your first interview. :thumb

mary

[gemasita]

Great advice Mary! Thanks!

My meeting went great! I did try to really listen to them and let them bring up some things on their own. And I asked them several things that prompted some good conversation. They want to use me as their doula! I made them think about it and call me in a few days but we all felt so great about it so I am pretty sure this is going to work out!

I wonder who here attended their first few births on their own and who had someone go along with them?

[HeatherE]

Good for you! I did all my births on my own from the beginning. You'll be fine!

[Noelia430]

Congrats! I started attending births on my own from the beginning. It all just came very naturally to me and I'm sure it will to you, too! You'll do awesome. Let us know how it all turns out.:D

[Jilian]

I made myself a little client info sheet with some important questions I like to ask each mother. I fill it out myself. Here's a copy:

Mother’s Name:

Address:

Phone number:

Cell phone:

E-mail address:

Partner’s name:

EDD:

First birth?

Hospital/Homebirth/Birthing Center?

Address where giving birth?

Dr./Midwife attending birth:

Phone number:

Partners feelings on labor?

Your fears:

Goals in pregnancy/childbirth:

Will you be breastfeeding? If so, will you attend a breastfeeding class before birth?

Will you attend childbirth education classes?

Do you have or want a birth plan? (assistance in drawing one up is available)

Are you interested in aromatherapy during labor?

Are you interested in having photos taken during labor? (I’m not a pro, but I do have a nice digital camera and photo printer )