Ever wondered what to ask a doula?

•  Choosing a doula isn't a decision to be made lightly, but once you've decided that having labor support is what you want, now you need to choose a doula that is a perfect fit for you and your partner. Here are a few questions that may be beneficial to ask. This is by no means an inclusive list, just a jumpstart to dialogue.
• What is your training? Are you certified? If so, by what organization? And what was required in order to receive this certification?
• How many births have you attended?
• Are you familiar with my doctor/midwife/hospital/birth center? Do you get along well with my caregiver?
• When would you join me during labor?
• Which labor-coping techniques do you think tend to be the most helpful? (If you have a specific technique or method in mind that you plan to try, ask about her experience with it.)
• How would you work with and involve my partner?
• How do you feel about the use of pain medication during labor?
• Why did you become a doula?
• Tell us about some of your birthing experiences.
• What's your fee?
• What does your fee cover? How many visits or hours?
• What's your refund policy?
• Do you have anyone else due near the time I'm due? (Most doulas limit the number of clients they accept to two to four per month.)
  
• Do you have a backup arrangement with another doula or group of doulas in case you're not free when I go into labor? Can I meet them?
• Can I talk to a few of your recent clients?
  
• Will we meet again to address any concerns or questions I have and to review our birth plan?
  
  
• How do we get in touch with you when labor begins? 
• After the interview, try to imagine the doula at the birth with you and see if you feel good about it. Ask yourself:
• Do I feel comfortable around this person?
• Is she warm, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable?
• Does she communicate and listen well?
• Will she support my choices or does she have her own agenda?