We found a doula!

[DivaSkyChick]

I can't tell you how relieved we are. Because we left it so late, many, many were booked or taking holiday the month of August.

The one we found is darling. We had a meeting with her yesterday and couldn't have felt more comfortable around her. She's a tad more spiritual than we are but we like that about her. It will be a nice balance with the midwives.

My DH was is open to whatever I want but I think the meeting with her really helped his comfort level.

Also got our date set to have the homebirth chat with one of our midwife team. This is when she leaves the birthing box behind, etc. So far, I really like all of our community midwives.

Feeling a lot better about things. Hypnobirthing class and antenatal classes begin shortly. Yay!

That's great news. When are you due? I am due end of Aug and had forgotten it was the school hols. The first doula we contacted is away... but she recommended some others. I need to get myself organised and start meeting/talking to a few!

Is this your first? It's my first. Would also like a homebirth, and recently attended a local NCT homebirth group (very useful). Have also read Marie Mongan's Hypnobirthing book and am booked to see a hypobirthing therapist soon.

In your area can you actually meet some of the community midwives? I don't know if that's possible in my area.

Have you faced any resistance to your plans for a homebirth? Some women seem to find that their GP or midwife tries to talk them out of it (especially for the first baby). My midwife has been lukewarm but certainly hasn't tried to talk me out of it (yet).

Hi Naturelover,

I was shocked at how positive my midwives were about it. We have a community team and I've never seen the same one twice, yet they are all very cheerful about it (I see only them). It's my first and I'm 41 years old, too. Only one said, when I was complaining about agonizing back pain, that the baby's positioning MIGHT make me want to rethink doing it at home. OP (I think that's the term) can be rrrreally painful.

I don't know of any NCT Homebirth classes but my NCT antenatal starts next week. Hoping to make lots of friends as I shall be a SAHM for the rest of our time in London.

I'm due at the end of July so I'll be able to let you know how it goes. I'm very excited even though I'm also terrified!

It's a neighbouring district's NCT that runs the monthly homebirth group. Twickenham if you're in W or SW London - might be worth going.

I'm also planning to be a SAHM in London! When you say the rest of your time in London, does that mean you're an expat here?

Good luck with the birth and let us know how it went. Have you tried any of the baby-repositioning tricks? I think they can be quite effective in many cases.

LOL yeah, I haven't been on the couch since I started to believe she might be OP. No slouching, no laying on my back, lots of leaning forward... Tried to watch tv last night on my hands and knees but ouch, that's really uncomfy for my knees and wrists! Going to try swimming tomorrow, since I look sooooo sexy in my new suit.

I'm in Fulham, btw. SW London. My DH and I are both from California, here for his job. I was working too (the dollar sucks here!) but quit a month ago. I Loooooove staying home but geez I'm always busy anyway. Had planned on laying in bed eating bonbons...

great news......really pleased !