I would say as long as you can find someone you like then definitely get one. They're not medically qualified but they understand the birth process and act as your advocate as well as explaining what's going on. Midwives come in and out when you're in labour but your doula will stay with you all the time. I seem to remember the rate of emergency c-section is considerably lower for doula births - they definitely help you feel calmer and more in control. One of my midwives had a very strong accent and when I was in the process of giving birth my brain couldn't process what she was saying so having my doula to 'translate' was invaluable. I'd say they're well worth the money and a heck of a lot cheaper than having a private midwife or obstetrician.

Hi there,

I'm a Family Consultant (new parents, sleep training, baby and child troubleshooting, behaviour, first aid and CPR training etc.) and I often meet or hear of doulas when working with families.

One of the nicest I've talked to is Zara de Candoule at Doulabud. I've known several mums who have used her and have only ever heard really positive, warm things about her. She's involved in a big doula network and seems like a really good resource. It might be worth getting in contact and having a chat.

For my two cents worth, I think it's really important to chat and click with the person you are thinking of employing. A doula is basically going to ideally be able to provide lots of support for you and be an extra advocate for you in the perinatal period. It's almost like the role a mum or close aunt might have taken years ago, so you want to feel like you really get on with them and can have a good relationship.

Happy searching for the right match.
Sophie
www.gentle-start.com

I had my baby last April and Kayla mead was my doula. She is actually a part time doula at c+w but I hired her privately. She is the most wonderful caring calm person. She did some nights for me when I came home from hospital as well which was a life saver. Good luck !


http://www.kayladoula.net

https://doula.org.uk/doula/sophie-brigstocke/

Hello, I am a postnatal doula so I admit I am bias as I think both birth and postnatal doulas really can make a difference to birth and early weeks at home. Chelsea & Westminster actually have doulas working alongside their MWs. However, if you would like continuity of care and one to one care it's best to look at Doula UK and see who is available in the summer months as there are fewer available as we tend to be mums ourselves. Hope that helps. Julie@babyintuition.co.uk

I am giving birth at the C&W hospital this summer and thinking about getting a doula. Do people think they make a real difference and are worth it?

Any local recommendations that people have had good experiences with?