First-Contact Doula Intake Checklist

Seventeen questions to walk through on the initial consult call before contracts are generated — ensuring medical risk factors, provider compatibility, and boundaries are documented upfront.

1 · Obstetric History & Provider Team

1. Estimated due date, and is this pregnancy classified low-risk or high-risk?
2. Previous pregnancies, birth outcomes, and any complications?
3. Current conditions relevant to labor (GDM, BP, placenta position, GBS)?
4. Care provider (OB / Midwife practice) and scheduled hospital/birth site?

2 · Birth Trauma & Emotional History

5. Prior birth experience described as traumatic, fearful, or difficult?
6. History of pregnancy or infant loss, and preferred way to acknowledge?
7. Working with a therapist, pelvic PT, or trauma-informed provider?

3 · Partner & Family Dynamics

8. Who will be present in labor, and what is partner's desired role?
9. Does the partner also desire direct guidance and coaching from doula?
10. Any other family members planned in the room or at the hospital?
11. Preferred day-to-day contact cadence (portal, text, emergency calls)?

4 · Birth Site Policy & Logistics

12. Does the hospital officially permit a doula plus the primary support partner?
13. Facility limitations on water labor, mobility, food intake, or intermittent telemetry?
14. Has the facility tour and admission registration been completed?
15. Distance from home to hospital, expected travel time, and winter backup?

5 · Business & Investment Fit

16. Package selection confirmed, and is a customized installment schedule needed?
17. What core feeling or support is the client most hoping to gain from hiring a doula?