Post natal doula or maternity nurse?

[HeadlessLadyH]

I'm currently 12 weeks pregnant with twins and have 2 DCs already (one is 5 in June and the youngest has just turned one).

I am feeling a little overwhelmed by the task ahead to say the least! So, I'm considering some help in the early weeks when the twins arrive home.

But I don't know whether to go for a post natal doula or maternity nurse and so would welcome any thoughts! I assume a maternity nurse would be more focused on dealing with the babies and helping with sleeping/feeding routines etc. but a doula sounds more like a general help with everybody!

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

TIA

That sounds a big challenge!
I have no experience of a Doula but we had a maternity nurse for 2 weeks and it was fantastic. She was helpful on b/f ing, and after first 5 days or so she did the middle of the night feed with expressed b. milk so I was getting almost 6 hours sleep by day 6 ...which meant that I was much more like a human being during the day, and ready to cope once she left. PBF had a great routine by then and we have stuck to it ever since

Thanks for your reply. Did she live in with you/do the nights too ? Must admit that's the tempting bit as dealing with 2 newborns at night is pretty daunting! I like the idea of focussing on getting a routine sorted as I think we could go under without one.

I would suggest that you interview a couple of each and see how it would work in practice. I do know of people who have had bad experiences with maternity nurses, but I used to be a doula so possibly biased!

Can't help but wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS and good luck whatever you decide
(not helpful but well meaning)

Thank you champagne. I think I'll need as much luck as you can send my way!!

daisymoo I'd not thought about interviewing but of course! It would make sense to at least employ someone you like and feel comfortable with.

One web site I looked at said that she (a doula) was booked up till September, so I may have to start the hunt shortly. I know my mum will be up to help as much as she can, but I think I will need to call in the Professionals.

Congratulations! Definitely would recommend interviewing a few. Some Doulas do do night work so can help out there. Maternity nurses seem to sort the baby / babies out for you, but doulas show you how to cope with everything