Doula for C-Section?

shac4688 · February 2013

I will have a scheduled repeat C-section in August and I'm considering getting a doula. Has anyone used a doula for a repeat C-section?

MrsBernard · February 2013

I had a doula for my csection. DH I hired her when we were expecting a vaginal delivery but things changed I had to have a csection. She was great! She met us at the hospital sat with us while I got my IV prepped. She kept DH me calm. DH was in the OR for the delivery he left with DS when they took him to the nursery. Our doula came into the OR stayed with me while they finished things up. It was great because neither DS or myself had to be alone.

RayRay007 · February 2013

wife07mom09:

im curious, why?

a doula is to help with labor, relaxation etc.

they wont be allowed in the OR unless you choose not to have your DH in there

Id save my $$ personally

This isn't necessarily true, I had my MW and DH.

OP, I had a MW because obviously I was planning a vag birth. Ended up with an emergency c/s. DH didn't make it on time, but MW made it just before they cut me open. It was really nice to have her there, but it was nice to have any familiar face. She was familiar with the process and talked me through it, and was still the baby's caregiver after she was born and ok'd by the NICU team. She brought DD over to me and helped me bf, and checked on us often in the hospital, and at home afterwards. She was very encouraging and I am so glad I had her. However, a doula won't necessarily help with after care or bf'ing. Maybe find one with experience with c/s, and after care and ask what they could do for you.

shac4688 · February 2013

With the birth of my daughter, I was allowed to have three people in the OR. They said normally it was two people, but my doctor made an exception. So the number of people isn't an issue at my hospital.

As for why, they will help keep you calm and be with you after your husband goes with the baby. Last time I had my sister and mom stay with me. That's not an option this time, so I was considering a doula.

nawlinsgrl · February 2013

I had a doula for my first pregnancy, which ended up resulting in a CS. I am planning on a RCS, since the births are close together (14.5 months apart), and I want my tubes tied after this one.

I couldn't imagine hiring a doula again, knowing I am having a RCS. Had I known for sure I was having the initial CS, I wouldn't have hired her then either. I wanted peace of mind that someone who knew what they were doing was there to advocate for me and had the knowledge to help me through the birthing experience. I was glad to have her while I labored, but once it was CS time, she was rendered virtually obsolete, IMO.

pepomntpat · February 2013

It would depend on what you want a doula for. I would inquire if it is something of interest to you. A postpartum doula could be especially helpful for a second time mother-I would think especially after a c/s. Doulas can also answer lots of your pregnancy questions well before your LOs birthday comes.

I was glad to have my doula there when I ended up with an unplanned c/s, but I am not sure I would have hired her if I had known I'd have one. She was helpful and she did tell DH what to do and say to keep me calm and all that good stuff.

payn0045 · February 2013

My hospital had its own doula program, and actually offered c-section doulas specifically. We used one and it was great. She came beforehand, and made sure we were prepared, then just chatted with us and kept us relaxed. She was amazing and helped us get in a real positive mood going in. When they took me back for the spinal, she went with my husband to get in scrubs and ready, and I know he appreciated it because otherwise he would've been sitting there alone and nervous.

Since she was hospital staff, she was allowed and welcomed into the OR - but either way, my hospital allows 2 visitors, so it wasn't a concern either way. She kept giving moral support, and also took charge of the camera so my nervous husband wouldn't have to. She got some amazing shots. She also helped out a bit afterwards with breastfeeding, etc.

We loved having her and would absolutely do it again. It cost $125, which is way less than a regular doula. If we had to pay much more I would think twice, but for that price I would recommend it to everyone.

mommytoconnor · February 2013

Typically doulas are used for calming techniques during labor and to support you during your labor. Most hospitals will only allow one person in OR, so it would be your husband or doula. I don't think it's necessary.

sonshine0609 · February 2013

I would double check with the hospital & your doctor to see what the general policies that they have are. Each hospital is different. Also each doula is different. Some doulas specialize in post partum which would be VERY helpful w/ a c/s. Some have extra training in BF. I am currently completing a combined program through Child Birth International to be a doula, post partum doula, breastfeeding consultant & childbirth educator. (I believe in being prepared for anything lol) I am also a big supporter of making your birth your own even in the case of a c/s. You still have choices & options (which again is part of a doula's job, keeping you informed of said options). The key is doing your research and advocating for what you want.

Want a personalized experience?

Doula for C-Section?

Re: Doula for C-Section?

Choose Another Board

Search Boards