Doula

[Holldoll]

What was your experience with one? Did you have labor? Postpartum? or Both?

Thanks!

 

[ablaze]

whats a doula

 

[Holldoll]

It's kinda like an extra support coach for both the woman and her "coach." She is there for the labor and helps with breastfeeding. If you do a search on google for it you can find lots of information about them.

 

[JessRbt]

We just hired a girl at work who is a Doula. I'd be curious to know what others experiences are with them. I am not sold on the idea yet

 

[hypnorm]

Very Expensive! i looked at a website! and almost died of shock!
I'd rather have my hubby and family than some strange bod!

 

[Holldoll]

I think here in CA they run about $800-1200. How much were they where you were?

 

[Lucy]

I think they're great if you don't have your family and friends close by

Statistically having a Doula gives you a lower risk of an assisted birth or c-section (read that in a Mother and Baby Magazine at the weekend). I can imagine they'd be a great support during labour and could offer advice or suggestions post birth, especially if you've got some rellies saying "I did this and it never hurt him/her/you" etc.

 

[Holldoll]

I met my midwife and she is going to work as a doula, her husband is the OBGYN and she doesn't have "rights" to work at the hospital as a midwife, so she can be a doula, this way *I think* insurance will cover it as well.

I love my husband but he doesn't deal well with other peoples pain. When I was attacked by a dog, he was a worse stress case than I was.

 

[Lucy]

If I could afford a Doula I would definitely hire one. Especially if it was my first child. My friend has just qualified as a Doula and talking to her I know if I met the right person it would be a tower of strength during labour and birth and in those fuzzy days post natally when you're so sore and tired and overwhelmed.
I think having someone with knowledge of birth present at yours would be good - like if the MW says I'm going to break your waters or I'm going to increase the drip to bring on contractions - how many of us know when you ask "can't you leave me for another hour to see how I progress etc", I just agreed to everything they said with my DD whereas from going over my labour and birth with my (new) friend who is a MW she was saying "next time you should ask if they can do x, y, z etc".

 

[Mango]

Hi ladies, I'm reviving this older thread in hopes someone can share their experiences. I have been working with a doula for a few months now and she'll more than likely be in the delivery room along with my OH. Anyone one else have any stories about their doula experiences before/during/after birth?

 

[Holldoll]

Thanks for reviving this! I've really been researching it more as I just learned that my OB is switching to a group practice and may not be the one to deliver my baby! GRRR!