Steps:

1. You and your husband/partner discuss and decide what you are looking for in a doula; what services, role, price range, additional services including personalized and in-home childbirth education sessions, massage, breastfeeding help, and post partum services.
   
2. Once you have developed a list of skills and services and personal traits, you are now ready to start looking for the doula who best fits your vision of birth, your lifestyle, and price range.
   
3. Interview numerous doula candidates, as many as you are comfortable with by email or telephone. Later, schedule in-person interviews with the doula candidates on your "short list." Birthing Hands of DC offers a free initial consultation which helps clients to talk, share ideas, and begin the relationship.
   
   Here are some questions should ask doula candidates:
   • Are you a certified doula and, if so, by what organization? How long have you been a doula? How long have you been certified?
   • How many births have you served as a birth doula? How many births have you served as a doula that are similar to the one I plan? If you are planning or considering an un-medicated birth, also ask how many were un-medicated births have you served as a birth doula in which the expectant mom delivered without pain medication?
   • How many births have you attended at this birth setting (specific hospital, birth center, homebirth)?
   • Have you ever worked with my care provider? How many births have you attended with this practice?  
   • What supplemental training or certifications do you have? For example, are you a trained or certified breastfeeding counselor, massage therapist, etc?
      
4. Narrow your list of doula candidates to less than 5 candidates. Three (3) is an easy number to schedule personal interviews. And by now, you have a clearer picture of what services and the traits of the doula you prefer.
   
5. Next, interview potential doulas in person. Set aside one hour for each interview. It is important that you feel a "chemistry" with the doula, but chemistry may not be enough. Take this opportunity to let each candidate know what you are looking for in a doula.  Explain the kind of guidance, assistance and relationship you are interested in having with her. Clarify the exact services she performs, what special skills or training (acupressure, massage) she will bring to this birth and if there any additional supplemental services (in-home massages, post partum care) she can offer you.
   
6. Feel free to ask for references from clients who have had births that are similar to the one you hope to have. For instance, if you are planning a VBAC, ask for references from successful VBAC clients whom she has served; if you are planning an unmedicated birth, ask for references from clients who had an unmedicated birth whom she has served.
   
7. As soon as possible, make a selection and let each of the doula candidates you personally interviewed know that you have made a decision.  Doulas tend to hold space in their calendars for potential clients with whom we feel a bond.