Having a doula/ birth coach - worth it?

Re: Having a doula/ birth coach - worth it?

• wcm2b member

  September 2015

  I'm a FTM so I can't say too much because I haven't actually had a birth with a doula close by but we hired one from about 14 weeks and I just adore her! I can text her anytime with questions and we have had two meetings to talk through any fears I have, practice positions, practice breastfeeding with a fake boob etc. she makes me feel very comforted and calm about giving birth. I'm glad I will have her to share her knowledge and guide me through techniques and positions to cope with labour. The thought of just relying on very over-run nurses to help me was not reassuring enough for me and I like that she will help DH and my mom to know how to support me as well and keep everyone informed and calm

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• Chirorocks15 member

  September 2015

  FTM here too but I wouldn't dream of doing labor without a doula. They really can slow the pace of the room down and ensure you and your spouse are understanding the options before you (even though I am in the healing/medical field, my husband isn't and is freaked out by hospitals.) The research shows they can reduce labor times and medication usage, if that's important to you. They are your #1 advocate and coach; they are there to help you emotionally, mentally, and physically. (I hear they are a big help to the spouse as well). Good luck!

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• cc47033 member

  September 2015

  I've heard wonderful things about doulas (although we are not hiring one due to expenses.) One of the midwives at my hospital said that if money is an issue you can look into hiring a student doula. They've had all the same training, the just have to attend X amount of births before they are fully licensed. Good luck!!

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• Louisl member

  September 2015

  Also FTM but we are working with a doula. I'm in Los Angeles and they book up so quickly you have to hire one in your first trimester! I had the same hesitations as you but literally everyone I know who had a doula says hands down best money spent and worth every penny. I would recommend trying to find one that has attended many births at the hospital where you'll be delivering. Our doula has been so great in telling us the way things work at our hospital and what to expect, as well as some helpful tips on getting a room with a window/tub, etc and because she knows the staff there they are more likely to let her in the OR in the case of a c-section. My husband at first was like what's a doula and why are we spending this much out of pocket? But now he tells his friends who are also daddies to be how useful they are (and we haven't even given birth yet). Bottom line, they are an advocate for you and bring a ton of experience on what works and what doesn't. I trust my OB but she won't be on the scene until I'm pushing and even then I'm likely to get whatever dr is on call.

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• SarahAnne1101 member

  September 2015

  Absolutely worth it. I am a little biased, as I am doula. = D If you have any questions, feel free to message me. Also, student doulas are a great option for tight budgets. They have completed all their training courses and classes, but are attending their certifying births. I can get that information for you if you are interested. 

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• floyd1rl member

  September 2015

  @SarahAnne1101 I would be interested in how to find a student doula. I'm definitely interested in one but don't think we can swing the 1200 dollar price tag right now as I'm hoping to stay home with our son a little longer than originally planned.

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• kated4 member

  September 2015

  I am a FTM at 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. Good luck!

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• Cupcakesandquilts member

  September 2015

  It was 100% worth it last time. I had no epidural and no pitocin and a good experience overall. My doula had some wonderful counter pressure techniques that helped me manage my pain pretty well. We hired a doula this time too.

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• jegoffin member

  September 2015

  I'm planning a vba2c and most definitely hired a doula for this birth. I need every advantage I can get.

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• paapsa member

  September 2015

  Thanks for all the feedback! I think I'll end up going with a doula

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