When you're looking for a birth doula, you're probably going to notice similarities on their websites or hear similar answers during interviews (i.e., we'll meet prenatally, I'll join you in labor and stay throughout the birth, I'll provide physical and emotional support during labor, etc.). But you'll also notice that each doula brings something different to her practice. 

Some doulas are also trained as massage therapists or placenta encapsulators. You may learn that some doulas provide an extra prenatal visit or perhaps her contract varies from another doula with whom you've met. 

Not every doula will be feel like a good fit for you, so it's important you interview more than one, especially if you're not feeling like you've clicked well with the first doula you met. And it's impossible to judge whether you'll mesh with a particular doula unless you meet with her in person, even if it's someone that you've heard raving reviews about. 

As someone who has been practicing for over six years, I feel more confident in my work and am thankful for the experiences I've shared with my clients. But, I also look back on Doula Amy when I first started and see a lot of value and positive attributes, even though I didn't have much experience. I am so grateful the families with whom I worked in the early years invited me to be part of their birth team. 

All that to say, a newer doula has many skills and would be a wonderful addition to your birth team. I still leave a birth room and am amazed at how much I continue to learn with each birth experience. I also am grateful for all that I've learned from each and every birth experience, because it only helps me to be a more thoughtful and responsive birth doula. 

When you're looking for a birth doula, take time to ask the questions that are pertinent to you and your partner (if applicable). Share, listen and let your intuition guide you in your decision to either move forward or continue looking for a birth doula. You'll find the one that is a good fit.