Doula do or don’t?

Question

Did anyone ever use a doula? Was it helpful? How did you find one? What was the benefits of you had one?

Answer

I absolutely loved our doula and hired her again for our second birth. We met with her several times before the birth to talk through my wishes, do exercises, talk through different scenarios etc. She also provided me with a TENS machine and a birth pool (I had a home birth) and had a lending library of books. She offered prenatal massage. This time around she’s also available to help with our first child which will be really helpful. During the birth I think the best thing was that she could take care of lots of the logistics so that my husband could focus on comforting me. So she set up the pool, got water and snacks for me and my husband, closed the curtains, managed the music and lights, got me blankets when I was cold and cool towels when I was hot, cleaned up when my water broke. She was a great, clear headed advocate for me (our midwife was wonderful, but there were a few times she suggested things that went against my birth plan and our doula very professionally reminded her of asked her if we could do things differently.) She also took some gorgeous photos and videos at our request. And after the birth she cleaned everything up, made us some food, and made sure we were settled before starting our first night. I’m feeling really comfortable and confident about my second birth because she’s going to be there with us again!!

Answer

I hired a doula through my hospital and unfortunately they did not have availability and my reservation was cancelled so I don’t have experience having one. If we have a second child, I 100% WILL be getting a doula no matter the cost. I believe if I had one for my birth, there could have been some different outcomes.

Answer

I was required by my midwife to have one for my first birth because we had a homebirth. She taught my hypnobirthing class so it was really convenient and she was a very calming presence. I learned that I'm a very calm birther and don't want to be talked to or messed with lol My husband just sits there with his hand on me and offers me water occasionally. I like it quiet and dark so I can focus on relaxing. She really didn't do anything for me while in labor bit she made me some scrambled eggs and toast after baby was born. I did not get one for my 2nd homebirth but have considered it for my 3rd since I will be having a hospital birth this time and want someone to advocate for me. I think they may be more useful in a hospital setting for me.

Doula do or don’t?

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