Doula pricing

[tiramisu]

Hi, I'm new to the forum

I'm pregnant (first child, first trimester) and I spoke to a doula who sounded lovely. During our phone conversation she quoted $1600 and I wondered if anyone could tell me whether that is around what an experienced doula usually charges. Although it's not a time to be quibbling about money, it seems high compared to what other doulas have quoted. What do you think?

Cheers, T.

[Bathsheba]

My doula (who was almost fully trained I think) charged me about $400 from memory (back in 2003)... that was about 2 or 3 home visits... attendance at the birth (about 12 hours) and one after birth visit. She also wrote up a beautiful 3 page record of my birth story. Great value. I received a discount though because she knew me through BB and was able to follow my pregnancy journal in here etc.

What does she offer for $1600???

[tiramisu]

That sounds like what she offers, as well as a lot of experience at births. So, maybe a little overpriced?!

[Daydream Believer]

Good thread

I will be keeping any eye on this because I was wondering the same for #2

[boomba]

My doula is going to be $850 as she is classified as a advanced doula or something? So the more experience the higher the price? Well thats what it is in our case!

Good luck x

[tiramisu]

Hi Boomba. Does your doula have a website? Ta.

[boomba]

No she doesnt sorry maybe try the Australian doula college! x

[Sara]

Hi there!

Congrats on your pregnancy!

As the others have stated, charges really do vary from Doula to Doula. And personally, I think experience should really depend on how much a Doula should charge.

I would be a little put off if a newly registered Doula who had only supported the 2-3 required certifying births was charging up around the $1000 mark. However, Doula's who have supported a lot of births I feel have the experience to "back-up" the charges.

If your concerned about whether she will give you your moneys worth so to speak, ask her for feedback from previous clients. A meet in person will also be a good indicator if you feel that she is worth her value.

I hope it all works out for you!

Take care!
x

[tiramisu]

Thanks all, good advice.

I had my first scan today. So exciting to see the tiny bub & hear the heartbeat!

[sallen2]

our adorable Doula costs $800

3 visits before
2 after
as much email and phone communication as needed

and she's been doing it for 15 years ....

[pepperemilie]

Hi!

I think the price is about right if she is very experienced. As said above doula's charge more based on experience and if they've attended more than 20 births than they usually can charge quite a lot. Meaning she can probably back up why she charges so much.

That said. You normally hire a doula around the 6-7 month mark. Since you only get 2-3 visits before the birth this means you'll be able to see her more towards the end of your pregnancy when you'll really be needed that help and reassurance. If you hire her before that then your 2-3 visits will be spaced over a long period of time.

Congratulations!

[tiramisu]

pepperemilie, she has many years' experience so probably is worth the asking price, but I'm still keen to talk to a few different doulas.

sallen2, if you are in brisbane could you let me know who your doula is, if you don't mind?

cheers, t.