No access to midwife or doula. Advice

babywood15

STM. First was a very quick delivery with a twice botched epidural. Complications after. Had a 12 hour labor from first contraction to delivery.

Now, I want a med free birth. I want to labor at home as log as possible. We do not have midwives or doulas near our area. I'm depending on research, books, and stories to educate myself on med free labor.

I'm a little stressed about birthing at home and then heading to hospital. I don't want to be hooked up to ANYTHING. No iv, no monitor, etc. I'm also wondering how long to labor at home. How will I tell the nurses "no" and have my wishes respected.

My brain is going crazy so any and all advice is accepted.

So far I've watched The Business of Being Born, reading Pushed, Ina May books, Bradly Method books, etc.

kadokatie30

Are you wanting to labor at home or birth at home? You mention both. 

In either case, I wonder if there are Midwives/Doulas who would consult with you over video/phone? I haven't heard of anyone doing it, and there would probably be a lot of limitations because of liability. But it might be better to at least get some consultation support and resources even if someone didn't attend your birth. 

babywood15

Because of not having access to either I want to labor at home as long as possible and go to the hospital for deliver. I think I"m just looking for maybe someone who has done the same? But great idea on the consult!

SharonB222

I suggest you have an advocate. A DH or BFF or friend who has this skill set. My DH and BFF do not (so my 1st delivery stunk, but I was sure to have a m/w for my 2nd); my dad was an advocate for my mom and to this day he recommends birth coaching books.

RissKay

Have you spoken to your doctor about your wishes? Are they respected and heard? I would think the doctor would have some ways to help ease your mind if they're on board. If not: probably time for a new doctor. 

When did you go to the hospital with your first birth? Did you wait until contractions were 5 mins apart or were there other circumstances surrounding it? 

I would write out a birth plan, and even if you need to ask a friend to stand as a birthing coach, ask someone. Any one of your friends whom you know would stand up for your wishes would be enough to at least make sure nothing happened before your consent. 

Marettie

I would consider looking into Hypnobabies homestudy option if you don't have any childbirth Ed either. It worked wonders for both of my girls!