How import is doula's experience?

cecilyandgautam

The practice I'm going with for my VBAC requires a doula but some of those who are known for their VBAC doula work are seriously more expensive than others who are a bit fresher to the field. How much do you think this matters? How important do you all find it is for the doula to have vbac-specific experience? On the one hand, I want the best support possible to increase my odds, improve the overall experience, etc. On the other hand, I still feel really jaded by my previous birth experience - my midwife & my birth assistant really didn't help in any meaningful way and just ended up being extra eyes & commenters from the audience. I'm having a hard time imagining how a doula would concretely help me - so I'm conflicted about whether there is any value to be gained from hiring a more experienced doula or just the cheapest one possible for me to check the box with my provider's requirements. 

Any experiences you can share are appreciated!

DaisyTortilla

I have never used one. But I have asked this question before and majority of women recommend hiring a one. The ones who did hire one are never unsatisfied. 

iris427

I don't think a doula needs to have specific VBAC experience to be helpful.  The doula I hired for my VBAC did have a lot of VBAC experience, but honestly I don't think she had to do anything during my labor that was specific to VBAC vs any other vaginal birth.  She spent a lot of time during my pregnancy reassuring me that a vaginal birth was possible for me, but I think that's more about a doula having emotional intelligence and knowing about vaginal birth in general than about VBAC experience.

For this baby, we are on a tighter budget.  I would still like to have a doula but may have to find someone less experienced or even a doula in training to save money.  I'm hopeful they will still be able to help me even if they haven't been to a bunch of VBACs before.