Doulas and/or Independent Midwives - thoughts and experiences

[MammyDC]

Hi Ladies

Anyone used these services? NHS care was at times horrendous in my last pregnancy/extended hospital stay post birth so investigating other options.

Appreciate all thoughts/recommendations/things to consider.

Thanks so much

I had a doula at my first birth - home water birth, and I would highly recommend. I would say if you are feeling let down by the services being offered to you then absolutely go down the private route, its a life changing experience and one that is worth all the investment and preparation you can manage.

It was fortunate that she was actually the person who I did a hypnoborthing class with so I had a good rapport with her - and have since gone on to teach her course myself!

I felt like that with my first baby. For this pregnancy, I am very lucky in that we have recently moved to a different part of Essex, so am able to use One to one midwives, who are independent, yet funded by the NHS here. The care is so, so much better. I am also having a doula this time around, as my lovely friend is a doula (and also taught me hypnobirthing the first time around - wondering if we know the same people babiesinwaiting ).

I would absolutely research all the options available to you. Good care during pregnancy and birth is a game changer!