Doula

[NatGee]

Has anyone used one before or planning on using one in their current pregnancy? Would love to hear your experience please if so

Yes, I have hired a doula for my second pregnancy (I'm 26 weeks).
With my first child, I had a pretty textbook pregnancy and went into spontaneous labour at 41+3. I was doing really well until it was time to go to the hospital and I suddenly lost all my focus, contractions became unbearable and I couldn't cope anymore. My DD was born via ventouse delivery in the end as she got stuck. In hindsight I am convinced if I had had someone there to guide me, encourage me into different positions, keep me in a calm mindset etc the whole birth would have panned out differently.
I have added medical issues which could lead to potential complications this time round so thought it even more appropriate to hire a doula in case we have to navigate some medical decisions.
We've had one meeting with her so far and will meet her twice more before the birth. She will then also come round twice after the birth for additional postpartum support.

@UnicornRainbowSky thank you for sharing your experience, sorry it's taken a while to reply, I suppose I have been on a bit of a rollercoaster when it comes to this subject. I am so glad you found someone to work with, I am finding that part a bit difficult but undoubtedly ill get there. Like you, I need someone to help me through the motions of childbirth, this will be our first and I have no idea what to expect but know that I would like to have an undisturbed birth in the comfort of my home. You must be going into your 28th week. I wish you all the best for a magical birth experience xxx