What do MNers think of Doulas? Has anyone had one?

[Picante]

I'm thinking very far ahead I know (am 9 weeks). Ideally I'd like a pre- and post-birth one as I struggled with breastfeeding last time.

Has anyone used one?

I misread this thread title, thought it was a name thread asking about the name 'Douglas'

As you were.....

I attend approx one a month as we have an on call period from 2 wks before due date to whenever baby is born. so to try and fit more than one every 4 wks period could get tricky.
Doesn't always goto plan though, had 3 in a week last year, and then one on the weds, one on the thurs. That's childbirth for you, babies wait for noone.

It's not terribly lucrative tbh, I live in Kent. I belive London Doulas can charge alot more but like yourself, money is not my driving force, I do it cos i love it.

I thoroughly reccomend it. Good luck with the new baby, see i am very of you for that.

Tequila

houseofmirth, have a look on the doula uk website, I'm sure there's some of sort of way around paying what you can rather than a set fee, their way of thinking is that everyone is entitled to a doula regardless of cost.

I would love to be a doula and have been to a friend, but I can't fit it in at the mo and I do have a medical background which I feel interferes with the whole process, so I think I'll be a midwife instead as a compromise! A good one! and yes, it is an enormous priviledge to be present at the birth of a baby, there's nothing better!

I'm in Reading if you could recommend anyone in the area that would be great. You've definitely sold them to me!

Hi Picante. I am in Slough so not far away.
I am a trainee at the moment and charge £150 but will probably be recognised by the time you have baby- if you want to meet and book I will charge you trainees fee.
If you want to get in touch email me at
[email protected]

Thanks Leanne. It seems strange doing stuff before I'm 12 weeks but I'll keep hold of your email and get in touch soon.

Hi All, Im a Doula, its a great 'job' !

Births vary so much and its great to be part of them and help empower women.

Cxx

Thats fine it always seems such a long way when it is at the start of your pregnancy but come the end you can't believe how quick it has gone. All the best for your scan.