Choosing an Educator or Doula

How to Choose an Educator

It is important that you take the time to inquire about the qualifications of a childbirth educator prior to attending their classes. Childbirth educators should go through an intensive training course and demonstrate competency in teaching and in childbirth. Don't be afraid to ask for references or to see past course evaluations.

When choosing a class, determine whether the class is consumer oriented or provider oriented. Consumer oriented classes tend to encourage you, the consumer, to take an active role in choosing the options you desire for your birth. Provider oriented classes tend to inform you as to the care and procedures you can expect from the hospital and your doctor during childbirth, with little emphasis on alternatives.

Questions you might want to ask an educator:

  • What method of childbirth education is taught?
  • Is the instructor certified?
  • What topics are covered?
  • Are relaxation and breathing techniques taught?
  • What is the instructor's philosophy toward pregnancy and birth?
  • Does the class help participants create their own birth plans?
  • How big is the class? (Smaller classes, with fewer then 10 couples, are ideal.)
  • Will the environment be welcoming and comfortable regardless of whether your childbirth partner is your spouse, partner, relative or friend?
  • What is the class style: lecture or participatory?
  • Are the time, length and location convenient?
  • How much does the class cost?

How to Choose a Doula

Questions you might want to ask a doula:

  • What is the doula's training? Is she certified?
  • What is the doula's level of experience? How many births has she attended as a doula?
  • What is her philosophy regarding birth?
  • Can the doula provide references?
  • What does she provide as part of her doula service? Does she do both prenatal and postnatal visits?
  • What is the doula's fee? Will she accept a payment plan or barter for her services?
  • What is her availability? Does she have a back up in emergency situations or if she is out-of-town?
  • Has the doula worked with your care providers? What is her relationship with other hospital or birth center personnel?
  • How does she see her role during the birth? What are ways she includes the partner in birth?
  • What does the doula expect from you? (contract, questionnaires, birth plan, etc.)