Who here would or have used a doula??

[jaydensmum]

Im interested in doing the doula course but before i go and join up for it i want to see how many of you personally would use one or have used one?? :yes: :D

[SpecialMumma]

Deffinately be using a Doula!

[KarniF00l]

No i didn't use a doula but the midi's i had were just as good as a doula :)

[shed]

You would make a fantastic doula!!

I used a doula and wouldn't dream of ever giving birth without one. Preferably the same one I had last time, she was awesome, she has become part of our lives now.

She was from Birth central in Petersham.

[jembelina]

I am using a doula this time. Mainly because I am attempting a vbac and feel I need all the support I can get. I don't think I would use one if this wasn't the case. Also, my doula is a student so we don't have to pay anything - there is no way we could afford a fully qualified doula. I don't tknow if I would have even heard of doulas had it not been for bubhub!

[DoulaFelicity]

Used one, loved it, became one, love it. :D

[*Sparkles*]

I am thinking about using a doula, but I need to educate myself and find out more about what it means and what is offered.
Maybe someone could answer a quick question please? I know that a doula helps with labour but do they also offer assistance after the birth and during the first few months?

I am worried because originally my parents were going to come over from the UK after the birth of our bub early next year, but now it may not be possible. So I am fearful of how I would cope by myself and wondered if a doula would be able to offer me help and support in the first few months?

Thanks :)

[Briannabear]

With my first pregnancy I didnt know what a Doula was - I really wish I had known though, things could have been so different!
This time I thought about getting one but DH wasnt really comfortable.

[DoulaFelicity]

Formally, there's a few different types of Doulas, Hels*Bels. :) One example (and probably the most well known type) is a Birth Doula, who usually supports you during your pregnancy and birth and for a short time afterwards (though many will extend the postpartum support if required - Doulas are a flexible bunch). Then there's Postpartum Doulas, who specialise in Mothering the Mother after the birth - cooking you meals, doing laundry, providing breastfeeding support, etc - just basically being a helpful, caring presence for many of the things you might need in the postpartum period, from simple emotional support and company to menial tasks around the home. It sounds like that might be what you're after? Depending on who you hire as your Doula and what their own views are, a Birth Doula may be willing to also act as a Postpartum Doula for you - it's a case of looking around, speaking with a few Doulas, and letting them know what you want and need; then they can tell you if they can accomodate you in those needs. :)

Personally if I was available and able to offer the support required, I would have no problem with extending my services (I'm a Birth Doula) to a longer postpartum period. I'm sure there's others who feel the same way. :)

[*Sparkles*]

Thanks Felicity
A postpartum Doula would be exactly what I am looking for, so thanks very much for that info. I will definitely look into this and I feel so much better now knowing that help can be available to me.
You have made my day :thumbsup:

[MilkOnTap]

This is my first bub - and I'm definitely thinking about having a doula... hubby has a weak tummy (bless his cotton socks) and I dont have any family around, so I think a doula would definitely fill the voids nicely :D

[DoulaFelicity]

You're lucky, too, Hels - you're in Victoria, which is Doula central! :thumbsup:

Here's some links to get you started on your search - whilst the Doulas listed may not themselves be typically Postpartum Doulas, they may be willing to extend their services, and/or may be able to recommend you to someone who can help:-

http://www.bubhub.com.au/servicesdoula.shtml#vic

http://douladirectory.joyousbirth.info/vic.html

http://www.**********.com.au/doulas-vic

There's lots of help out there for new Mums (I remember all too well myself those isolated and challenging newborn months), if you know where to look (which sadly many of us don't/didn't). Never fear - one way or another, you'll find the support you need. :)

[Blessed Mum]

Didn't know about them when I was having DS. Unfortunately one was not available where I live with having DD & I'm not sure if I would of felt ready after having such a large gap between 1 & 2 (10yrs). But if/when #3 comes along I will definately be organsing a doula.

P.S. - Jayden'smum - I reckon you would make a great doula too from the few times we've chatted :) Good luck with what you decide xxoo

[Rhys'Mum]

Had an appalling birth experience where I felt seriously unsupported by the midwives. While I swore I wouldn't ever go through labor again we are planning a second before too long and I have been contemplating a VBAC (its amazing what a little sleep and a bit of time will do.) I would definately be using a doula if I go down the VBAC path as I really needed to have someone in my corner.

While my obstetrician was fabulous I want to have someone with me who knows what's happening, how everything should be happening and who knows me.

[SassyMummy]

Haven't used the services of a doula yet, but I certainly WILL be when I have another baby, as I'm going to do my best for a VBAC.

As I had a c-section last time, I have no idea how DP would act while I'm in labour...so there's no way I'm going to soley rely on him for support. In fact, given that he always thought I was exaggerating when I whinged while pregnant, I think he'd probably be really PATHETIC as a support person...so I DEFINATELY need a doula, if only for that reason.

I'll certainly be looking into a doula who can help me out PRIOR to birth (attend my appointments with me) and who can be there DURING the birth. I don't care about afterwards. I'll also be trying to get a doula EXPERIENCED with VBACs...and not opting for a student doula (just because I feel I need MUCH MORE support because it's a VBAC rather than a straight forward VB).

I'd actually love it if I could find one who's had a VBAC herself...that would be great! :thumbsup:

[Alatariel]

I've put my foot down and told DP that if I cant have my mother in the room, I'm having a doula and he can stick it. he has a HUGE habit of getting hurt and childish if im yelling coz im in pain, even when its so completely not directed at him, i can see him being the worlds worst support perosn.