Do I need a doula for a VBAC?

[boatbaby]

I had a c/s with DS 6 years ago because he was transverse. I am so ready for a VBAC this time around (due in Sept).

It seems obvious to have a doula since I will be in the hospital (birth centers in my area do not allow VBACS though I am having a midwife not an OB. Homebirth is out since we live on a sailboat). But the price for a doula since my son was born seems to have doubled! I can't find anyone under $800!!!

Here's what I am worried about: The hospital pressuring me and/ or DH into things we don't want to do. Or just bugging me while I try to labor in peace.

Here's what I am comfortable with: the birth process in general. I have been lucky enough to attend the natural births (hospital and home) of 3 different good friends. I have seen it first hand from beginning to end. I am extremely comfortable and confident that I can do this... I truly have no worries except for the worry of people interferring.

Is a doula a good guard dog against a pushy hospital staff with a high CS rate? A necessity? Or if I am sure about what I want and that I can do it, will the midwife and my husband be enough?

Thanks for the input...!

[SubliminalDarkness]

I'd say whatever you feel like will make you more comfortable. I didn't have a doula, and can't say that I would ever want one. I knew what I wanted and didn't want, my DH knew, too, and I knew he would back me up in whatever way he needed to.

[HeatherB]

I would try to find a doula. You may be able to find a doula in training who will work for a reduced fee (or free). I would just make sure that she is able to and comfortable with providing the kind of support you need and want. A doula can make a huge difference in your labor and your birth experience, so while the price seems exorbitant, I would do what I needed to to get one. FWIW, I know some doulas will barter and/or set up payment plans for you. In fact, one here says, "Make a plan, tell me what it is. That's it." Very easy going, even though she's $600 or so.

[limette]

I wouldn't do a vbac without a doula especially in the hospital. My midwives fully admit to not being very helpful during hospital births. Mine was never around after we transferred there.

I'm positive my vbac would not have been successful without my doula.

[TanyaS]

Originally Posted by limette

I wouldn't do a vbac without a doula especially in the hospital.

This.

I'm positive my vbac would not have been successful without my doula.

And this.

[CherryBomb]

I'd strongly suggest a doula for a hospital vbac, but that doesn't mean you can't have a successful vbac without one. Your odds are greater, though. I had a doula for my hospital vba2c and she was a great source of support! Most doulas will work with you on price.

[boatbaby]

Thanks everyone! I think I am going to search between the couch cushions for change and make this happen if I can

[Mamabeakley]

I am a doula and obviously I think in general having one is a good idea . . . but I would ask you what you want your doula to do (whether you were VBAC or not) . . . and I would suggest that a midwife might be in a better position than a doula to bulldog in the hospital and that your first priority might be making sure you have a midwife who's going to do that - and not be forcing things on you due to policy that you don't want in the first place. I've seen midwives do both (protect the space in hospital, and inflict the space in hospital).

[KaliShanti]

Originally Posted by cherrybomb

i'd strongly suggest a doula for a hospital vbac, but that doesn't mean you can't have a successful vbac without one. Your odds are greater, though. I had a doula for my hospital vba2c and she was a great source of support! Most doulas will work with you on price.

this.