I am 37 weeks and my husband and I did decide to work with a doula. We were on the fence and concerned about the cost, but we found someone who is very experienced and charges a reasonable price for us. I am interested particularly because I am hoping for natural childbirth and the doula has many tools for labor including natural pain management. My husband is looking forward to having someone there to support both of us through the whole process. As he says "she has been present at 600 births, I have been present at 0." I'm sure every mother and couple is different but we have met with her several times and feel very encouraged and supported so far. Hopefully there are some other mamas on here that can share their experience since I am still in the midst of mine. Good luck!
I would have gone with a doula had we been planning a hospital birth. Luckily my home birth team/midwives can act as my doula for support, pain management, and care along with DH. I think having a doula is a great plan!
Re: Doulas