If We Can't Afford A Doula, What Can We Do? - Page 2

[rouserstrousers]

When are you due? I'm near Denton and am certifying right now with CAPPA. I still need one more birth for certification.
I do not Doula for free, but I do offer my services at a reduced cost. PM me if you're interested. My website is www.birthbyyou.com if you would like to read more about me.

Well, I am sure that I could labor without a doula but I really wanted one last time and felt that it was a HUGE missing element in my labor. I know that I require a lot of attention, confirmation, affirmation and emotional support in labor and I don't try to pretend otherwise.

That's exactly how I felt after having my second child which is why I had a doula for my third child. It was totally worth it.

[truelife]

May I ask who your MW is? Jane Gandy, in Garland, was my MW (and preceptor while I was training to be a MW) and in the last 3 years she has always had an apprentice. Both of her apprentices/assitants are amazing and with an extra person there you get a ton of attention, encouragment, and love. Even without the apprentices there - Jane is the most nurturing person I know. I may be a little biased though.

Like I mentioned before, I was Jane's apprentice and am now doulaing. I did the training with rousertrousers and she is so sweet!

Please let me know if you need anything.

[ahdoula]

Everyone covered everything I was thinking of BUT other thing I have to add is a lot of doulas, certified or not, will barter. If you sew cloth diapers, or make pottery or anything like that....You may be able to knock of half the price. Also, many will take payments over an extended time, try $50 a month. As a doula I wouldn't mind having an extra $50 a month for 10 months to count on. A DONA doula knows that DONA feels strongly about a doula for every woman that wants one, and shouldn't turn you down about money without TRYING to work with you. Good luck! I think having a doula is a great idea. I have my dh, 2 midwives and a doula. I want the extra support and attention and I think it makes all the difference.

[PiePie]

bump -- you women are full of great ideas.

[nausicaamom]

There's an organization here in Philly that will provide free doula services to any woman having a birth in two of the larger university hospitals in town, I think it's a very cool thing - Here's a link to their site. Since it's asscoiated with a school of nursing, maybe if you have a local university hospital they may have a similar program in place.

[rouserstrousers]

Thanks Niccole.(truelife)