It's never too early or too late to hire a doula.  The best time to start your interview process is ideally after your first trimester.  Most doulas book quickly; repeat birthing families often book their doulas when they confirm their pregnancy.

Absolutely. C Sections are still apart of labor and the birthing parent still requires support even in a surgical setting. Your doula will be there to explain what is happening, guide you through the procedure and create personalized birth plan. Your doula will also be there during the recovery to help you with the first breastfeeding and bonding. There's a possibility that your doula can accompany you into the operating room unless it's an extreme emergency requiring general anesthesia. Throughout the process your doula is there to support you and your partner.

You deserve the best care! Each doula has their own unique flavor and there are a few things that come into play. Consider the following:

1. Trust your gut, it’s the most honest part of you. Does the doula's personality and style fit you and your partner? Do you vibe well with the doula? If a doula rubs you the wrong way, uses certain language you don't like, have an understand of cultural differences, radiates an energy or vibe that doesn't sit well with you, or even has the same name as an ex or unsavory person whose name alone drives you crazy, they may not be the doula for you. Honestly, even the simplest thing that you try to ignore can amplify either over time or on your "birth day” and we don’t want that!
2. Determine what it is that you're looking for. Do you have certain preferences or wishes when it comes to pregnancy and birth? Are you planning on using a certain birthing method or other tools? Finding a doula who can unconditionally support you and who may have experience with the things you are planning for can make all the difference. Doulas often acquire additional training and certifications to provide you with a more well-balanced, well-rounded approach to doula support. What additional knowledge would you want your doula to have (ie. acupressure, aromatherapy, belly casting, childbirth/lactation education, massage, optimal fetal positioning, photography, placenta encapsulation, etc.)?
3. Interview more than one doula. As doulas, we know how important it is for a relationship to feel connected and trusting. That is why we believe that by researching and considering more than one doula. You can complete an internet search or I can provide you with recommendations through my network. 
4. When the connection feels right, go for it. After the logistics like availability and pricing, more forward if you feel ready to add this person to your birth team. *Tip: If you connect well with more than one doula, consider hiring one as primary and asking the other doula to be the back up doula in the unlikely event that your primary doula is unable to attend your birth. Ask if your hired doula works with specific back up doulas or is open to suggestions/guidance from you.* Read this blog post "10 Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Doula".