Doula??

[opaloctober]

So, i'm 12 weeks along this Friday. It may be a little early to be thinking about such things, but I just couldn't help myself. I'm trying to find out if a birth doula is what I need. I'm going to have a hospital birth, most likely with an epidural, even if it's just a light/walking epi...I also would like someone to coach me with being a mommy,

Comments

[inthespaces]

I think a doula will help you with a lot of those things, and I think they check in on you once or twice, but I don't think most come stay with you for 2 weeks after.

[luckyj_baby]

There are postpartum doulas available, usually at an hourly rate. My labor doula also had included in her package 1-2 checkups once I was at home for breastfeeding/emotional support.

[ninaf]

There are postpartum doula's that help with everything after the birth. They are trained in breastfeeding but won't (usually) have the same knowledge as an LC. Depending on your area, they might around 15-25/hr. You might find a student looking to get certified to do it for a less amount.

A birth doula can help you with the childbirth part. You can probably find one to do it for free or very low cost since they are required to have at least three births to get certified.

[roseinthefall]

you can also get a postpartum nurse. I have one assigned to me through the health department because I am low income first time mom. it's a free service. there are a LOT of free services out there to first time moms. your insurance company should help you find them, along with your docs office and WIC if you are enrolled.

[naya]

My doula does prenatal, birth, and postpartum support. I found her when I was ~15 weeks and she is awesome. She also teaches Bradley Method birthing classes and it covers breastfeeding too. She has resources for lactation consultants if needed. She has already been a huge help to us. Its my first pregnancy and I really want someone there to hold my hand through the process. That is what she's for. Good luck!