Any/More Doula info please

[Nimme]

I am 7 week pg with no 2 and although I didn't have a terrible birth last time I like the idea of a "nicer" experience this time - perhaps more in control. I have been in touch with a very reputable doula who advocates home births - that wasn't exactly what I had in mind and I wonder whether all doulas are of the same mind?

Any doulas here?
Any doula experience?

There is a doula here - pupuce - but I haven't "seen" her for a while.

I have engaged a doula for the birth of DS3/DD1 (due in August). She has not by any means tried to persuade me to have a homebirth - indeed, one of the reasons I have chosen her is that she has already attended two births in the hospital I will be in. I think the general attitude is that they will support you in your choice, whether that is home or hospital.

Pupuce put me in touch with various doulas. Whereabouts do you live? I will see if I can still find the web address she gave me.

Pupuce's website is here

If you contact her, she can probably give you information about doulas in your area.

Dinosaur - thanks for info. I live in SW London. Checked out website - maybe she'll know someone local to me. Many thanks again.

nimme - no - not following you around the boards here! Why not also contact your local chapter of the NCT? I'm sure they will have an 'experience register' with women who have used private doulas, etc and perhaps give you additional information to think about.

Can't help with doula's in London, but I had a fantastic Doula who was recommended to me by my accupuncturist who used to be a midwife!! I had a fantastic birth 2nd time, she was so calming etc.

A doula should only be there to support your wishes, never really should she give her own opinion on things, like a home-birth, but she can be useful in passing on your wishes to the midwives etc. I would suggest you try to find another one, who you feel more comfortable with, after all it is such a precious time, you should only share it with someone you trust, and get on well with!!!

Dinosaur - liked the look of your doula website - will call tomorrow.

Smelly - yes don't feel convinced with this one - also she can't do post-natal (pre-booked) and I had toyed with that idea as well.

Hana - yes about time I got in touch with NCT

Have you looked on the doula UK website? It's here

WWW - yes that's where I started. The more info I get the more confused I get and am know not sure what I want. Like the idea of someone experienced and maternal helping to ease the ride but loathe the thought of someone bossy and interfering.

Perhaps I don't do anything as according to the doula I spoke to I am likely to have an easy birth this time. Perhaps we splash out on a night nurse for a while and get dsome valuable sleep instead. Or or or..........

DH can't understand the hurry but I know if I want first choice I have to decide now.

ARGH!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Nearly got a doula for my ds's birth as like you wanted support, hand-holding etc. Contacted Topnotch Nannies (who were ok, but only found me 2 possibilities so didn't go ahead in the end). A couple of friends went for independent midwives - great idea if you can afford them as they're around right thro pregnancy & after, . though a few K so v. expensive. BTW, if you opt for a home birth, you should get home visits on the NHS from community midwife team and they'll come out to you during 2nd stage and can always take you in for actual delivery if you wish.