Now with baby number 2 on the way and more knowledge about the birthing world I am now debating whether I should have a doula for this birth or not. As much as I’d love to have a home birth I can’t afford it 😒 and my insurance will cover the cost of a midwife as long as she is under an OB (womp womp). So I’ll be giving birth in a birthing center in a hospital, Morristown. I’m pretty excited about this hospital so far. I hear its like going to the spa, I would love to be in a spa-state-of-mind while giving birth. They even give a FREE massage to all new moms before they leave. Oh yeah!
Any way, since I’ll be in a hospital and have a midwife (plus probably my mom, aunt, at least 1sistercousin, possibly my brother and can’t forget about hubby present [yeah we roll deep😊]) will I REALLY NEED a doula? Part of me says “sure, why not have that passionate person present”, although I share loads of info with my fam, a doula brings a different type of support. Plus adding a doula to the fam gives me an opportunity to add to the positive stats of women (especially of color) using doulas and committing to positive natural birth experiences.
After reading The Loation Commotion post Free (Doula & Placenta Pills) is for Me about hiring a doula-in-training FOR FREE, I’m even more inclined to enlist the services of a doula. I’ll get to help add another woman to the assisted birthing world (doulas are required to attend a certain number of births before they can receive their certification). Plus I’m sure I’ll learn even more about birthing. I’m still kind of thinking about becoming a doula some time in the near future. Brown skin doulas are hard to come by and SO needed!!
The only negative not so positive thing I can think of is adding one more person to the room. But this could be so worth it!! Hhmmm Decisions…decisions.
Did you have a doula present at your birth? What would you recommend? Do you know any doulas-in-training?
While my doula was free of charge, I still wanted to gift her something in return for her time and presence. Another mommy friend encouraged to offer the doula some gas money, which is very reasonable and meaningful in my opinion. In addition to a personal gift I want to give her, gas money is a great idea especially when she’s ‘ free.’
Anyway, I will be honest: I had 2 midwives, my husband, and doula in my bathroom. We all fit but it was difficult to get each persons presence (i.e., pictures and video recording) from doula and hubby. I’m a bit relieved that the birth photog didnt work out because I don’t know where she would’ve fit!
Good luck! You’ll be great
That’s a great idea. I love gift giving especially for such a service. And thanks for the note about space!!
Also, have you checked out DoulaMatch.net. That’s how I connected with my doula-in-training.
Thanks for that link. I didn’t think to check there assuming only practicing doulas. I’ll have to check that put. I think I may have found a doula. \O/ not confirmed yet but maybe soon.