Independent midwife or doula?

[Fific33]

I'm coniderinbg paying for some emotional support and continuity during pregnancy - birth - post and am not sure which route to follow.
I am going for a hospital birth so an independent midwife seems really expensive but having spoken to a few they've made me feel really safe and realxed about the process.
Am a bit worried about the unregulated nature of doulas and would want one recommended.
Any one got anything to say?

Well, if you are in hospital you will have qualified midwives their anyway, so you don't really need another. I don't know much about doulas, but people say good things about them. The doula won't be making any medical decisions, so there's not too much to worry about

*there.

Shame.

Where are you based? If you are in North London, I can certainly recommend my doula. She is extremely knowledgeable, very supportive, and generally all-round fab!
www.birthandbeyonddoula.co.uk

An IM may well not be able to be your actual mw if you are having a hospital birth.

i recommend a doula. where do you live?

You can always look on They keep a close eye on their Doulas and self-regulate

The link is to Doula UK. Forgot to add that bit

A doula doesn't really need to be 'regulated' in that we do not provide medical advice or treatment. All we're there to do is provide information and support so you can make your own decisions and feel you were supported and respected during your birth. That said, Doula UK does have a Code of Conduct that its members must adhere to and if for some reason there was a 'rogue' doula doing bad work, there is a complaint system that could lead to her being ousted from the organisation. Best of luck finding someone!