Having a birth doula is an important step in planning for your baby's birth. They help ensure you are supported with hands-on methods, education, encouragement, and helping your partner support you in new ways. When hiring a birth doula, it's customary to meet with them twice before the birth so they can learn about you and your hopes, fears, and desires for birth, as well as answer questions you have about the process. They also usually visit you in the first weeks after your baby arrives.