Slap Some Sense Into Me, Please...

[jinkel]

I’m just sooo bummed right now. I had really hoped to have my doula at my birth, and her business trip when she mentioned it to me months ago, seemed like it was an eternity away (and I wouldn’t go to 41 weeks anyway, right? ) Well, that time has arrived, and unless I miraculously go into labor today, I will have her backup, whom I’ve never met (my fault, again) at my birth.

I was going into this birth with such a positive outlook – a real “I can do it” attitude. I’ve been soooo looking forward to this labor and birth. There are so many wrongs (from my first dc’s birth) that I wanted to right this time. I’ve been practicing my Hypnobirthing *faithfully* for many months, and feeling so strong and ready. So why do I feel discouraged now that I’m having a different doula?

I know that having a doula (even if I’ve never met her) is better than *no* doula - - especially since I’m giving birth in a foreign country, and I *really* need someone to act as liaison between dh/myself and the hospital staff. But I’m still so dang BUMMED.

Help! I don’t *want* to feel discouraged (that’s the last thing a mama needs going into labor) – can someone knock some sense into me? Tell me to stop being such a dang baby, and suck it up! Knock me around a bit, please!

[MsGrizzle]

No knocking from me...my first thought is can you set up a meeting with this other doula ASAP so you can establish some sort of relationship with her?

Hugs!

[Sandrine]

:

[ashtree]

Im so sorry. Honestly, I think that really sucks and I know I would be really upset. I hope the other doula is someone you can feel comfortable with and relate to. I second soapdivas advice about meeting her ASAP. Good Luck to you and the babe!

[annarosa]

yes - meet her as soon as you can - who knows she might be much better than the first one - these things tend to work out well for us birthing mammas - think positive - there is something there for you ..........

[Miss Juice]

Positive thoughts for you
When I was pregnant with my first, I had my Main Midwife (who I adored) and my Other Midwife, who I'd met twice and had lukewarm feelings about. I knew in my mind that there was a possibility that I'd be laboring with Other Midwife, but I never felt that in my heart - I just knew it would be Main Midwife. Well, not so. When my water broke and I found out there was no way Main Midwife could be there, I was upset. But when we got to the hospital, things just clicked into place, and I had an amazing birth. The Other Midwife was so completely in tune with me, it was awesome. She's now delivered both of my babies, and we're planning another waterbirth together...

So as the pps have said, this may work out all in your favor. If you're feeling anxious, try to meet her ASAP! And good luck! And happy birthing! None of us are going to be pregnant forever, after all. (right?)

[ice_chick]

Hey, look on the bright side, at least she has a backup! My doula is going to be out of town on July 22 (I am due the next week) & she has no backup so I am just hoping I don't go into labor that day! Yes, try & meet the backup as soon as possible. Chances are if she is working with the doula that you really like, then she is probably pretty terrific also. Everything works out for the best, so you never know. Hang in there.

[lotus.blossom]

Kelli, you could possibly totally like her! I'd say meet up with her and put your fears to rest! Otherwise, you could always end up sending her away if you don't feel comfortable with her.......

[jinkel]

Thanks, mamas. I'll give the backup a call in the morning, and chat with her. Again, my bigger concern is how well she deals with the hospital staff on my behalf. I *really* hope she's good at it.....: