This is very much a personal choice. Some birth professionals feel more comfortable with a contract, while others feel very happy working without one.

A contract between a birth professional and a client generally covers your role and responsibilities, discusses backup in case you are unavailable, and goes through the payment agreement. It can be helpful for making sure that each of these issues are discussed with clients. It is better to leave a contract with clients, or email a copy of it to them before you meet them, so they have an opportunity to read it thoroughly and ask any questions before signing it.

Many birth professionals work without contracts and have no problems with this. Whether you choose to have a contract or not, it is important that the terms of payment and the responsibilities are clearly understood by the client in order to avoid any problems later on.

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