South Jersey - Newly Pregnant and need some help w/ finding a new Ob/Gyn that allows a doula.

[Demerise]

I am pregnant with my 2nd. First child was born at a hospital w/ epidural. I have my heart set on a natural birth. Not comfortable with a homebirth at this point, but want this birth to be as free, unrestricted, and relaxed as possible. This is all new territory for me, so I would welcome all the advice I can get. Searching for an ObGyn that allows a doula to be present. The ObGyn would have to be affiliated with a hospital that would respect my wishes for minimal interruptions.

Is a midwife an option for a hospital birth? If so, would they be the one to deliver or would the doctor from my obgyn clinic? Or would the midwife work along side the doctor?

I'm interested in placenta encapsulation. Would love recommendations for this as well. When having a hospital birth, would this be a problem?

Thanks in advance! :)

[whirlwind]

A couple avenues to consider, none of which I have experience with but all of which I've heard fabulous things:

- Dr. Anthony Giovine

- Avon midwives

- midwives at Monmouth Medical

- midwives at Jersey Shore hospital

Good luck!

[dlm194]

Can you give us a more specific idea of where you are?  South Jersey as in Trenton?  Camden? Cape May?

A midwife is definitely an option for a hospital birth.  Hospital-based midwives are backed up by doctors.  This means that the doctor can place restrictions on her practice so some midwives have a lot of freedom and others not as much; it just depends on her back up doctor.  But that doctor will be there to handle any complications that could arise. 

I actually think the best thing to do is search out some doulas and ask them who like to work with.  Most of them will gladly suggest doctors or midwives that are open to their presence and who genuinely try to help the mom have a great birth experience.  They can also tell you about the local hospitals.  If there is one she "doesn't go to" then that is a red flag that the hospital will probably not respect your wishes!  ;)

[mom2tatum]

Yes, if you are more specific with your location and how far you are willing to travel for appts/birth, I could probably give you some suggestions...I've had s. jersey clients make all kinds of various choices!