Thinking about a Doula?

Question

I live in the States so it’s not common place and I don’t personally know anyone who has had a doula for their deliveries. But I’m worried about laboring and delivering without the support I’d wish for. I have no family within an 8 hour drive. And I just can’t count on my husband. Sometimes he’s wonderful but I just can’t count on him. I’m afraid I’m going to be on my own so I’m thinking about hiring a doula. But, do I even understand a doula’s place? I know they don’t replace your partner. And the expense may be prohibitive. Any experiences with a doula at a hospital birth in the States?

Answer

I had a volunteer doulas with my last birth. She was doing volunteer hours at my hospital.
Basically they help you in anyway they can. Mine rubbed my shoulders, talked to me through contractions, try to help you visualize whatever you need to.get you through.
However  they are not there to be your advocate or make sure your birth plan is followed. They will remind you of your goals like if you really want an unmedicated birth and help you try to stay on track. But it is not their place to talk to the nurses or medical staff on your behalf. They are basically for emotional support.
Hope this helps.

Answer

Doulas can absolutely help with what you need. They absolutely do hospital births and help guide you emotionally through the process. They also can support your partner so he can support you better. If cost is an issue, you may be able to find a woman who is a newer or student doula to work with you at a lower cost. It would be better than having no support.

Answer

my midwife is a key player in my birthing experience. I'm having a home birth but if I need to go to a clinic, I will NEED her. having a third party interest during l&d just levels the game out because I won't be my full self during and I know my hubs will be out of sorts so having that third team mate allows for a smoother process. I say GO FOR IT. IM a super supporter of doulas and midwives

Answer

If the cost of an experienced doula proves prohibitive, and you can’t access student or newer doulas, perhaps prepare yourself with calm birthing techniques you find soothing. 
I’ve been attending a yoga for birth class which felt like such a spoil for just me, with great meditation and movement techniques to open the pelvis to maximise baby’s space. 
You could try a hypnobirthing course which teaches breathing techniques, positive affirmations and focusing away from the pain. 
A book we have found really helpful is Juju Sundin ‘Birth Skills’. It has a range of techniques so you can try them out and see which knes work for you, and has LOTS of opportunities and suggestions to include your partner which might help get him on track with you being able to rely on him a little more.

Answer

If I didn’t have my amazing mum and her support, I’d have a doula.

Answer

I'm in the states, 100% get a doula!!!! My best friend is a doula and she helped me through my birth. She helped my husband on ways he could support me, better positions, getting through the contractions, and acted as my voice when the nurses weren't paying attention, but my husband and I didn't know what to look for.
I would 100% definitely recommend a doula! 💕💕

Answer

I heard they are really great!

Answer

Definitely get a doula!

Thinking about a Doula?

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