Doulas???

Lola724

I am only 6 weeks pregnant and shared the news with my manicurist today. She excitedly told everyone in the salon that I was expecting. Afterwards, one of the other manicurists asked me if I was going to use a "doula." I had no idea what a doula was, and the best explantion they gave was that it was someone to assist with the birth. On my way out she told me to let her know if I was interested in having one at the birth of my baby. I was wondering if anyone used a doula and if they recommend them?

goodtobethelarkster

You might be better off posting this on 0-6.  Good luck!

*bunny*

i was considering a doula, but i am not sure.  they do not have the medical training of a midwife but they have usually been at many many births.  there are different types but typically a doula is there to give you and possibly your DH emotional support.  her main goal is to help you be comfortable, she might give you massage, suggest labouring positions etc.  other doulas come to your home after the birth and help you with the baby and help look after your needs like preparing light snacks etc.

they are known for decreasing the length of labour and the need for pain meds.  they also lower the chance you will need forceps or a caesarean.

doulas of north america - 206 324 5440 they can give you the names of certified doulas in your area.

ghdst1

I was reading up on Doulas because I hadn't heard of them either.  I read that their main job is to help with comfort, lessen pain, and be a support.  They don't deliver the baby and are just there for the mother.  From what I got it seemed more for women who were looking to have a completely natural birth and not use any pain medication.  That is their main purpose to help the mother deal with pain in other ways.

SWBs Wifey

We are considering hiring a doula (if we can find one)!  Right now I just have to find out if I can have a midwife instead of an OB... but DH has already said that if our insurance doesn't cover a midwife (I get mixed answers about this, so we'll just see...), then we will fork out the extra money for a doula, since I want to keep things as natural as possible.

meg1974

I'm trying to save all the money I can for when the baby comes, so I'm not sure if it's worth it. I think I will have plenty of emotional support from DH, and my mom will be there if I want her to (although I probably won't, she usually stresses me out). I also haven't 100% ruled out the option of pain meds during birth, and I don't want anyone to make me feel guilty about it or tell me not to if I really want it.

tboneangel87

I personally don't care for the idea of having someone there that isn't in my family. I hear they are professionally trained and can be very helpful, but it's not my style. Up to you though. Of course, I am biased as I want the very best doctor and drugs I can find. :P

brooklynbaby09

I'm pretty sure I will hire a doula as it gets closer. I'm going to a birthing center as long as I don't become high risk, so I think I'll want the extra help at home while I am in labor. I believe they can also visit you after you come home to make sure you are adjusting to everything okay. My family doesn't live close by so I think a doula will really help us.?