Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Doula Roles – 2025

Preparing for an interview for a doula position? This guide includes a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your experience, knowledge, and skills as a doula. Whether you’re new to the field or have years of experience, these questions cover all key areas of being a doula.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about yourself and your experience as a doula.
  I have been working as a doula for the past five years, and I have had the privilege of supporting families through over 50 births. I am certified through DONA International and am also a certified lactation counselor. I have attended training workshops on various topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care, and continue to educate myself on best practices in the field.
• 2. What inspired you to become a doula?
  I have always been passionate about women's health and childbirth. After the birth of my own child, I realized the importance of having a supportive and knowledgeable presence during the labor and delivery process. This motivated me to become a doula and support other families during such a crucial time.
• 3. How do you handle challenging or intense situations during labor?
  I am trained in various comfort measures and coping techniques for labor, and I also have experience working in high-pressure environments. I remain calm and focused, and I adapt to the needs and preferences of the birthing person. I also communicate effectively with the medical team to ensure the best care for the family.
• 4. How do you support partners during labor?
  I recognize the important role of partners in the birthing process and strive to support and involve them in decision-making. I also offer guidance and reassurance to partners, as well as suggestions for how they can support the birthing person.
• 5. How do you stay up-to-date with current research and practices in the doula field?
  I attend workshops, conferences, and webinars on a regular basis, and also participate in a doula support group where we share resources and discuss best practices. I also regularly review evidence-based research and stay informed through professional organizations like DONA International and CAPPA.

Skills & Experience Working with Families

• 6. How do you establish a trusting relationship with the families you support?
  I prioritize building a positive and open relationship with the family from the beginning. This includes taking time to get to know them, actively listening to their needs and preferences, respecting their boundaries, and maintaining open communication throughout the entire process.
• 7. How do you support families in making important decisions during labor?
  I provide them with evidence-based information and resources, and I work with them to explore all of their options. I also help them consider their personal priorities and goals for their birth experience, and empower them to make decisions that feel right for them.
• 8. How do you handle unexpected changes or challenges during labor?
  I understand that every birth is unique and unpredictable, and I am prepared to adapt to any situation. I stay calm, offer reassurance, and draw on my experience and training to provide the best possible support to the family. I also communicate effectively with the medical team to ensure everyone is on the same page.
• 9. How do you support families during the postpartum period?
  I provide emotional and physical support to the family as they adjust to life with a new baby. This includes helping with breastfeeding, offering guidance on newborn care, and providing resources for postpartum support and self-care. I also offer a listening ear and referrals to additional support if needed.
• 10. How do you maintain your own emotional well-being while supporting families during such an intense time?
  I prioritize self-care and have a strong support system in place. I also make sure to take breaks and get adequate rest during long births. I understand the importance of my own well-being in order to provide excellent support to the families I work with.

Cultural Fit

• 11. What values guide your work as a doula?
  I believe in respecting individuals' autonomy, promoting informed decision-making, and providing non-judgmental support. I also prioritize building relationships with families and maintaining open communication throughout the birthing process.
• 12. How do you ensure cultural sensitivity when working with diverse families?
  I recognize the importance of cultural competence in my work as a doula and continually educate myself on different cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions related to childbirth. I also engage in open and respectful communication with families about their cultural preferences and needs.
• 13. How do you support families with different birth plans or preferences than your own?
  As a doula, I respect each family's unique birth plan and preferences, regardless of my personal beliefs or experiences. I strive to provide unbiased support and focus on the family's goals and priorities for their own birth experience.
• 14. How do you handle conflicts or difficult situations with families or medical professionals?
  I am able to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations and prioritize effective communication and collaboration. I also recognize the importance of advocating for the family's wishes while maintaining respectful and cooperative relationships with the medical team.

Decision-Making & Problem-Solving

• 15. Can you give an example of a time when you had to make a quick decision during a birth and how you handled it?
  During one birth, the birthing person developed a sudden complication and needed to be transferred to the hospital. I quickly assessed the situation, provided assistance and reassurance to the family, and communicated effectively with the medical team. I ensured the family understood what was happening and supported them in their decision-making.
• 16. How do you handle conflicting information or advice from medical professionals during a birth?
  I carefully consider the information provided by the medical team and work with the family to evaluate their options. I also utilize my training and knowledge to ask relevant questions and support the family in making informed decisions that align with their values and goals.
• 17. How do you handle a situation where the birthing person's preferences conflict with the medical team's recommendations?
  I prioritize open communication and active listening between the family and medical team to come to a collective decision that respects both the family's wishes and the expertise of the medical professionals. I also offer support and guidance to the family in advocating for their preferences while maintaining a respectful relationship with the medical team.
• 18. Can you give an example of a difficult or complicated birth you supported and how you navigated it?
  I supported a family through a birth where the baby was in a difficult position and the birthing person had a long labor. I utilized various comfort measures and positions to help relieve pain and facilitate progress. I also communicated effectively with the medical team, and ultimately the family was able to have a vaginal birth without interventions.
• 19. How do you handle a birth where things don't go as planned or there are unexpected complications?
  I understand that birth is unpredictable and can be emotionally and physically taxing for families. I provide compassionate support and reassurance, and I am prepared to adapt to any situation. I also offer resources and referrals for additional support if needed.

Personal Development & Motivation

• 20. How do you continue to learn and grow in your role as a doula?
  I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and trainings on topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. I also participate in a doula support group and actively seek out new resources and information in the field. I am motivated by the opportunity to support families and to continuously improve my skills and knowledge as a doula.