How long should you hire a doula for?
This is a question I’m constantly asked, so I thought I’d make a quick post to address it. The short answer is, “There isn’t a perfect amount of time.” Read on to learn more about the “right” length of time to hire your doula.
When considering hiring a doula, there are so many factors that can affect how long you might need or want support. Here are some things to ask yourself.
What are your goals for hiring a postpartum doula?
Do you want someone to inform you and help set up the basics, like feeding or sleep habits? Maybe closer to a few weeks or a month is ideal. If you want someone to support you through the fourth trimester, three months might be better for you.
What level of support will you get from friends and family?
If you have no support outside of a doula, you will need a longer contract; however, if you have tons of outside support, you may not need a doula as often or as long.
What is your budget?
Most of my clients have a budget, and that determines the length of their support. (Read this for more ways to afford a doula.)
When will you / your partner return to work? / Will you return to work?
Many clients of mine want support until they return to work. Or, they want support because their partner is returning to work quickly after the birth of their child. Your career might affect how long you want or need a doula.
In my experience, one month to three months is usually a perfect amount of time for clients. After this amount of time, care is taken over by a nanny or other supporting person.
Local to Orange County or Los Angeles? Learn more about my postpartum doula packages! Or, book a prenatal meeting or VIP day with me! You can also learn more by following me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
Hi! I'm Gigi; I'm a postpartum doula, mother to three toddlers, including twins, and a wife to my high school sweetheart.
I help families get the tools they need to prepare, so once baby arrives, they can focus on resting and bonding instead of researching or stressing. I’m here to streamline the newborn learning curve and help birth parents, partners, and other family members. There isn’t ONE way to have and raise a little human. I’m here to guide parents to find THEIR way so that they can thrive in the fourth trimester and beyond.
