[Snowbaby]

I've turned the idea of getting a doula in my mind over and over (but DH discouraged it b/c he was offended that I dind't think he would be enough support for me). At this point, I know that I don't want to start that argument again (I'm 36+ weeks) but I was thinking a post-partum doula would be great to have ... especially since I don't want too many relatives around.

Is it too late to get someone? Are there strictly post-partum doulas or do they have to do the whole thing (pg, birth, pp)? Thanks

 

[Jane]

Birth doulas usually aren't post-partum doulas around here. It's too hard to schedule the post-partum time AND be on call for births.
You certainly are not too late for either! Just call and get referrals and set up some meetings with ones you like.

 

[LizaBear]

There are strictly PP doulas out there - look at the CAPPA website to see if you can find one in your area.

As for your DH - my arguement with mine was that having a doula there allowed him to focus on ME even more, because she could worry about little things (mopping my forehead, getting me a drink, etc). AND that it would let him go to the bathroom or get himself a drink without having to leave me alone. AND that after the baby was born, he could be free to focus on his emotions and on our new baby - not the logistics of getting me stitched and cleaned !

 

[TurboClaudia]

It's not too late!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm a birth & postpartum doula (but right now focusing on my new mamahood -- three weeks and one day!) and I've had clients call me as late as 38 weeks for support during a birth and after their baby is born for support in the newborn period. My colleagues here have had the same experiences.

Yes, there are individuals who do exclusively postpartum work, as well as ones who do both but neither is required. The postpartum doulas I know generally schedule from week to week since some families know they will only need help for a period of time while others plan on continuing with support until they feel comfortable without the extra support. Some moms of multiples have kept their postpartum doulas working for almost 6 months!

As for finding a postpartum doula, try the DONA website www.dona.org or other websites like www.doulaworld.com for some names, but I would recommend you start asking around for references. Childbirth educators (the best resource, in my opinion), your physician/midwife, LLL leaders and members, new moms group members, friends, co-workers, etc.

warmly,
claudia

 

[Lucysmama]

Are you birthing in a hospital? If so, don't go without a doula!!!!

My dh made the same arguement, and we didn't go with a doula. We were both so emotionally overwhelmed at all that was going on, that neither of us was in a position to advocate for what we wanted, and we ended up with many many interventions that we did not want. I feel we could have really benefited from a doula's care, and maybe even have had a vaginal birth instead of the c/section we had.

I would go for it!

 

[momsmyjob]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lucysmama Are you birthing in a hospital? If so, don't go without a doula!!!! My dh made the same arguement, and we didn't go with a doula. We were both so emotionally overwhelmed at all that was going on, that neither of us was in a position to advocate for what we wanted, and we ended up with many many interventions that we did not want. I feel we could have really benefited from a doula's care, and maybe even have had a vaginal birth instead of the c/section we had. I would go for it!

Go for it mama!!

 

[mistisa]

i agree with everyone here, get a doula!!!!

with my first we were at a hospital and we thought we could do it and ended up with a lot of interventions because we just didnt know. i was in pain and he didnt like to see me in pain and really didnt understand it. i dont think any man can.

a doula can help reassure your dh that it is normal. she can help you too, since this is your first. i would get on the dona site, also google it and see if you have any local doula groups in your area. in san diego, there are a couple of local doula groups that i found off the web and was able to call a bunch.

you most likey will be able to find someone. if you can at least get your dh to agree to meet with one or two for an interview, they may be able to ease his mind about their role and his role. i have one this time as it may be my last i want a better experience this time. good luck!!!

 

[Threefold]

No, not too late, but do it fast!
I would never deliver in a Hospital without our doula (in fact I;m on my way to see her today!).