Doula?

dtrombly2133

I'd like to do a natural birth but in a hospital setting (ours would be Emory John's Creek).  I also know I want my midwife over my OB doc.  My question is is a doula necessary.  Has anyone had a doula and the MW?  My husband thinks that if we have a doula that he wouldn't be needed.  The only reason I want a doula is to take the pressure off of him so he can enjoy it.  Also, that way I'm more "committed" (in a sense).  I'm not opposed to epidural I just don't want to do it unless I'm dying.  I think if I had a doula that she'd give me that extra push of encouragement to not ask for the drugs.  Now, saying that most of my family (husband included) thinks I am nuts for wanting to do this (my SIL had epidurals with both kids).  My MIL is the only one supporting me (she did natural with all three).  Help suggestions? Any recommendations of a good doula in our area (we live in Buford yet will deliver in John's Creek (about an hour away with traffic)).

andrea922

A doula =/= midwife. i think if you want a natural birth it is helpful to have a doula. I had one with my unmedicated waterbirth 2 months ago, in a hospital. She in no way replaced my husband, but was able to help me with positions and breathing, and offer a different kind of encouragement. I recommend you both meet with one so she can explain to him her role. Labor of Love is a great doula group.

lala_slp

I had a doula in August when I delivered my son and I would whole heartedly say it was money well spent.  My husband was sceptical at first but at the end he agreed with me and really loved having a doula too.  It definitely took the pressure off of him and made him feel more comfortable.  I ended up being induced for high blood pressure and my doula helped fine ways to keep me moving (and labor moving) when the nurses really didn't want me to. 

 I would also recommend Labor of Love and specifically Renee Wymer.  She lives in Roswell so I would think that she could see you at Emory Johns Creek.  We delivered at Northside Forsyth and it was not a problem. 

 On a side note, everyone thought I was crazy for trying for an unmedicated birth.  Most didn't think I would go through with it.  You CAN do it!   The nursing staff may or may not be helpful in the natural birth route.  It is so nice to have another positive voice on your side in the form of a doula. 

andrea922

Also, to add on to what the pp said - during my labor, which was 10 hours, I was begging, BEGGING, for an epidural. Looking back I am sure it was during transition, which was the hardest point. My doula was fantastic, and kept talking me through each contraction, telling me to just get through one more, that our bodies are amazing and made for this, etc. If my dh had said it to me I would have slapped him, but for some reason I listened to her and got through it and didn't have the epidural. She was worth every single penny.