anyone used a doula?

[percy]

Just wondering if any one had used a doula? I am thinking about using one for the post birth period as I had PND last time and just want to do as much as I can to prevent it happening again. Plus not much family or support around. Would involve much saving up over the next 6 months - just wondering whether any one though it would be worth it?

Our very own Pupuce has just set up a doula-ing business, Percy. Here's her new website Nurturing Birth and I'm sure she'll be only too happy to answer questions! HTH

Hi Percy - Thanks Sue Donim... (I almost thought you'd post the NCT number as you usually do,... glad to know you remembered me )

Percy - Obviously I think doulas are a great thing BUT.... you need to get one you like... and I can't emphasise this enough... she will do light housework, chat to you, make you tea or dinner, make tea for other children, shop for food, walk baby, .... Please avoid going via an agency as that will add an extra 200£ to your bill.
First go to www.doula.org.uk and see if you can find one locally.,.. call her up and INTERVIEW her.

Doulas can work 2 or more hours a day for as many days a week as you want and for as many weeks... what usually happens (but we remain flexible ) is that the doula goes 4 to 5 days a week for 2 to 4 hours and that's usually between 4 to 8 weeks but it could be for 2 weeks.
If you are going to find it hard financially why don't you discuss with the doula what you expect and maybe she can come 3 times a week for 2 hours... or maybe you need more.
Please feel free to ask more questions.

LOL, Pupuce - I don't think NCT have a doula-ing serice yet!

Hi Pupuce and SueDonim - thanks for all information - I have found a couple of websites through the doula.org website and I think I will arrange a few interviews. If dh is at interviews too then he may be a little more convinced of the usefulness. I feel that it is a massive extravagance and yet not all at the same time, and feel quite convinced that it would help me feel more supported.

Thanks again