Doula Post Reply

[Bloomers]

Hi

I would love to hear any recommendations from people who have recently used a doula in this area. I am looking for one who will do the pre- as well as post-natal work, and of course be on call and present for the birth (have a slightly panicky husband!)

I would much rather hear from clients than doulas themselves, and am definitely looking for someone who will really muck in with anything and is dog friendly...not someone who only focuses on the baby - otherwise I would just get a maternity nurse! Also any advice on how many hours you think is worthwhile daily to have the doula there - I really don't want to feel like someone is under my feet the whole time - on the other hand I imagine I will be wanting as much help as possible! This is all new to me so any doula related advice would be much appreciated - or any qu's you feel that I should ask them before I commit to choosing!

Thanks

[lily311]

I had a trainee doula and it was the best decision I made regarding birth. I interviewed qualified, experienced and trainee doulas and went for the one with whom I clicked straight away. She had tons of experience as a matenity nurse previously. I met her twice before birth to talk through things. She actually came from a friend's recommendation.

She was with me for the last 9 hours of labour and she really focused on me. I had a back to back labour, she endlessly massaged me, put hot flannels on me, hold my hand, made sure I drunk a lot. She helped me to have a shower after And took those precious first pictures and videos. She stayed with me until I got transferred to post natal ward and I had her as a post natal doula for 5 days for 5 hours each day after.

As a post natal doula she helped me to establish breastfeeding, i was very anxious beforehand. I didn't ask her to do any housework but she would have done it. I found that 5 hours was enough, there was no need for her to stay longer.

She was a trainee (newly qualified) so cost was much less too. If you are interested I pm you her website.

[Bloomers]

That would be really kind Lily if you could message me - I have been told I have left it very late so I better get going on meeting some! Thank you for taking the time to help me!

[stayathomemuminsw11]

When are you due?

I had an AMAZING postnatal doula (who also does births) and I can PM you her details/more info-but I know she has a few people booked in soon-ish.

Let me know!

[Bloomers]

Have PM you stayathome! Thanks

[dancing_queen59]

Hi,

I had an amazing independent midwife called Kemi. Sadly due to insurance reasons Independent midwifes can no longer practice so is now working like a doula but who obviously has all the knowledge and experience as a midwife. Her site is Natal Angels and her Facebook page is 'invisible midwives'

High reccomend, she is amazing.

[stayathomemuminsw11]

It wouldn't let me PM you back, so have emailed!

[Streathammum]

Hi there

I don't know if this reply is too late but I'd highly recommend Sam:
http://maternallynurtured.co.uk/
Sam helped me post-natally and she was fantastic, supportive, encouraging and very experienced. Unlike many doulas Sam is also medically trained (she's a qualified midwife). Definitely worth a look at her website and a chat with her.
Happy to provide more info if you need it.
(Havent quite worked out how to PM yet sorry!)
Bally