Below are some questions you should consider discussing with any prospective doula:

• Have you attended a Doula training workshop? Many doulas have been trained by Doulas of North America (DONA) or by the Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators (ALACE).
• Are you certified or working towards certification by DONA, ALACE or any other organization?
• If you have no formal training, do you have experience in providing Labor Support? Some women have several years experience which may make up for lack of formal training.
• Do you have special knowledge of High Risk or VBAC issues?
• What is your philosophy regarding fathers' involvement?
• How will you facilitate communications with our caregiver?
• How many Prenatal and Postpartum visits do you provide?
• May we meet your backup Doula?
• What are your fees? Most Doulas charge between $300 to $600 per birth. Some have sliding scales for those with financial concerns.
• Are you independent or hospital employed?

If Hospital Employed:

• Are you bound by shift schedules?
• Are you bound by hospital policies or are you free to support us in our choices?

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