Doula?

[firstbabe]

Has anyone used a doula? Was it a good experience? How much did one cost you?

[firstbabe]

Thanks all

[mommyoftwo_12]

I am planning on having a doula, my sister is actually my doula! So she has been very involved since i found out (naturally ). But when we meet she treats me just like a regular client. This is my 2nd pregnancy, the first one was 8 years ago and i wish i had one back then. She has helped me so much with my birth plan, and things i havent even thought of during this pregnancy. I have heard nothing but good things about all the doulas in my area.

[b_june21]

Personally I've heard nothing but good about doulas but my fiance asked around too to other dads. According to the dads he takes too, they felt pushed out of the way, not allowed to be as involved as they wanted to be. Obviously if daddy is in the picture, having him as involved as possible (and as much as wanted) is important as well... Just something to think about. I'm still undecided about using one, but my mom is looking into it to help.

[imaslice]

I should add that I had a very traumatic first birth experience in the hospital. Baby and I both had infections and baby was in the nicu for 7 days. So I had some bonding issues and a lot of breastfeeding issues. My doula was able to help me through a lot of that the first few days and help me find other resources for more help after.

[imaslice]

I had a doula with my first birth since I had to do a hospital birth and I wanted to go natural. I think it helped set the tone for the nurses that I was informed and I had an advocate for what I wanted. She only cost me $200 since I was only her 2nd client. For my next birth, a home birth her fee is $1500 and $200 for placenta encapsulation. Seems high but she's been so helpful already, I can call her day or night with pregnancy questions and after the birth she will be there too. Worth it to me!

[firstbabe]

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