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safe and sound with your new baby and tell her goodbye.
So how to choose the right doula for you? Let your gut be your guide. You have probably already found how vital instinct - the ability to know and trust that quiet inner voice - is during this journey to motherhood. Some women have chosen me after checking out my website, others heard my voice on the phone and felt sure I was the one for them. In general, I would advise that your meet the doula face to face. Ask her all kinds of questions. How long has she been a doula? How many births has she attended? What kinds of birth does she have experience with? Why does she like being a doula? Does she have references, and can you speak confidentially to some of them?

It is not so much the answers she gives that matter, as much as how you feel in her presence. Do you feel relaxed being with her? Do you feel like you could ask her anything? You will both no doubt be a bit nervous at first, but by the end of your visit, the ice will have broken and you'll know if you 'click'. As with choosing a nanny, counsellor or personal trainer, interview a few different doulas and be a canny consumer. There will be one who stands out as being the doula you are most comfortable with. Polls have shown that this compatibility of personalities counts more than credentials or experience when it comes to choosing your birth support person. It works to the advantage of both yourself and the doula when the synergy is there. You are more comfortable to birth freely, she is more comfortable to do the best job possible for you.
The right doula is out there for you. Google 'doula' and the name of your country or city. Pick up the phone and dial. A friendly voice will be on the other end. "Hello ... I wanted to ask about your doula service?"
You'll soon know if she is the one for you.

Learn more about this author, Julie Bell.
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