are you using a doula?

I voted other. I have an unusual concurrent care arrangement with a peri and a MW. My MW doesn't have clinical privileges at the hospital where I will deliver, so her role will be essentially that of a doula, even though she is a midwife. Clear as mud?

Yes. I felt it was a good idea to get a doula because I'll be birthing in a hospital. She's very awesome, by the way!

Yes. I had one for my hospital birth with Adia and she was useful, and I feel like I'm going to need support for my HBAC too. My doula this time around is one of my friends, so that's nice and relaxing too.

I voted "yes" but she sort of came with the package with my homebirth midwife. She sends an assistant (all doulas) as soon as you feel you could benefit! So it wasn't someone we went out specifically to get but kind of a freebie.

I voted other because as much as I would love to have a doula, I still cannot find the money to hire one. I will still keep searching & hopefully will find someone who will do it hopefully for free

Quote:
Many times there are student doulas who will do it for free. They need to do a certain number prior to certification. Also, check with your insurance. Mine paid for the majority of the cost of a doula last time. All I had to do was submit a letter and the receipt. Some doulas also have sliding pay scales.

I voted other - my sil is a doula but is due 2 weeks before me. So, if her baby is at least 2 weeks old when mine is born, she will be here to help me. If not, I'll have my midwife and the other midwife she works with, so we'll be good