Pre-certified doulas?

[jrwlewis]

This is a question for doulas in training. I am due with my second child in October. I am having a home birth. I am not looking for a doula per se but I don't have anyone to watch my daughter during the birth. I have friends I can ask but no one I feel comfortable calling at 4 am if that is when I need them. I had the thought that there might be doulas in training that would like the opportunity to witness a homebirth if given the chance. I have in mind that they would be called if it were the middle of the night and their role would be to take care of my daughter if she were to wake - with the hope that my daughter sleeps through it all. So most likely they would just be present to withness a birth.

Does this seem realistic? I can't afford to hire a doula and I don't really want one for myself. Would a pre-certified doula expect to be compensated? If so, how much? Any other thoughts?

[hipmummy]

Hmmm that is interesting. I would have done it (pre ds). I have still have not completed my certification. It also could be a potential doulas first home birth. You might be surprised to find many people willing to get the hb experience. You may want to compensate for travel and food expenses (if need be). Good Luck!!!!

[Rockies5]

Depends on the doula, and the area. Many volunteer, many don't. Just call around and ask.

I'd do it

[Inner_Serenity]

I don't need any certifying births but would do it, especially to be present for a homebirth. To me the chance to Doula a child for the birth of her sibling would be great....

What area are you in?

Tia

[jrwlewis]

Thanks for the responses. It sounds like there will be people responsive to the idea. For the record I'm in Boulder, Co. I contacted DONA and they sent me a list. I guess I'll start there!

[smokeylo]

I attended several births pre-certified. For most I asked for no compensation, but for the final one I asked for $75. This is a great way to get a trained doula inexpensively! I never had a complaint from a client and treasured the opportunity to gain experience! Go for it, I say!

[sweetpeasmom]

I know i'd jump at the chance! Doesn't sound too unreasonable and i'm sure there are some doulas that would love to do that.

[1stimestar]

Just for the record, that would not count as a certifying birth. It would be a good opportunity for someone to at least witness a homebirth though. Good luck in finding the person for you (and your child.)

[doulatara]

I would bet you could find someone to do it, just to experience/be around a homebirth. I am a doula that has been to 49 births in two years, and still have only been to one homebirth! Contact the doulas from the DONA list, and also ask them if they are not interested if possibly they know someone who might be. I bet there is a HUGE doula community in Boulder!

[jeninejessica]

I would absolutely do it!

Heck, I'm in the pre certified stage and I'm practically begging women to let me come!