Date a doula.

Did you know searching for a doula can be similar to dating? 
You want to learn about what a doula is, what they do, and ask the right questions to find the perfect match for you and your family.

Whether you have a lot of questions or only a few you want to ensure you are hiring a professional doula that fits your birth desires.

Where to find a doula...

There are a number of ways to find a doula. In Minnesota there are great and continually growing resources for growing families. These resources can help you locate all types of birth professionals, classes, and support groups. The Childbirth Collective and The Birth Community are two great non-profits that help families from conception and beyond.
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You may also have luck finding a doula through Google, Facebook or referrals from friends and family. If you aren't having such luck there try going directly to a doula organization (DONA) to search doulas in your area or use search engines like Doula Match, or Doula Find.

What to as​k...

•  What type of training do you have?
• Are you certified or do you plan to certify, why or why not?

                       Remember certification isn't required in the State of Minnesota and doesn't                              necessarily determine if a doula is qualified or not.

• How much and what kind of experience do you have?
• What services do you offer?
• What are your fees and what do they include?

                      Many doulas are self employed. This means that whatever your budget may be                       you will very likely find an affordable doula.

• Do you have availability to take me on as a client?

Another thing to look for is compatibility with you and your family. Birth and postpartum is an intimate and vulnerable event; do you feel comfortable with this doula being apart of it?

DONA International has a great interview guide to use for FREE, see it here.

The interview...

After finding a few doulas that you are interested in meeting, set up a consultation or interview with them. Many doulas offer a free 30-minute consultations to meet with potential clients. Use this time to ask questions and get to know the doula. If the doula doesn’t have an office space (many don’t), meet at a quiet cafe or coffee shop.

Once you have completed an interview... take time to process the questions, answers, and personality of the doula. Some people will know right away when they found THE ONE and for others it will take a few interviews. Remember that this is your birth and you have every say in your entire birth experience.

Best of luck on your doula search!

Feel free to comment below with additional questions you found helpful or if you have a question yourself. Doula Mae is always happy to educate and answer any questions the community may have!