When to Hire a Doula
Nothing frustrates me more than the websites and pregnancy books that tell folks to begin searching for a doula in their late second or third trimester. I encourage clients to begin interviewing doulas as early as possible in their pregnancies to ensure they find someone who’s a good fit before doulas are out of space. Most of us accept very few clients per month...far fewer than your medical care providers. Ethically, if we are going to commit to being at your birth, we need to carry light client loads to be sure we can be available to you at your birthing time (and sleep and see our own families on occasion). We book up fast! I know it may sound crazy, but many people reach out to me within the first week after a positive pregnancy test. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that great doulas will be out of space.
On the fence? Hiring a doula early in your pregnancy ensures you have:
Options! Your birth space is sacred, and the people you allow in are special. Interviewing early allows for greater choice, and ensures that you can find a doula who is a great fit for you. You don't want to hire someone because they are available; you want to hire someone because they are exactly who you envision supporting you on the most important day of your life. You can and should talk to several doulas before choosing the right one.
Support! Not ready to share your pregnancy with the world, but feeling sick/sad/tired/uncertain? Been there. We’ve got your back, and we’re less likely to say the complete wrong thing than your nosy coworker. Hiring a doula early means you've got someone in your corner through all of the weird parts of pregnancy, and at least one person in your life that you can be totally honest with about anything that feels hard.
Access! You pay the same fee whether you hire me at 4 weeks or 38. Booking early in your pregnancy means you have immediate access to my knowledge and referral network. Plus, we have longer to get to know one another so we can build trust.
It’s never too late to try, but it’s never too early either. Schedule a free meet and greet through the link in my bio. I’d love to get to know you 😊