Question for BTDT moms Experience with a doula?

I would like to have as natural of a birth as possible. But I have to say the sciatic pain I've been having has me pretty scared. I've been going back and forth with thinking of hiring a doula. Anyone use one before? PLease share your experiences.

Message edited 9/5/2012 10:47:48 AM.

for BTDT moms Experience with a doula?

I've had three natural births (with big babies)...I didn't use a doula because I used the SB Midwives and I knew they would help me through the deliveries (which they did).
Have you taken a Bradley class yet? DH and I both found that course to be tremendously helpful.
Good luck!

Re: Question for BTDT moms Experience with a doula?

I didn't have a doula with DD, but hired one for this baby's birth. So far, she's been great: experienced, knowledgable, and very calming.

Have you considered a chiropractor or acupuncture to help with your back pain? I see Dr Larain Valenti in Bethpage, and she's fantastic. After my first visit I wanted to live in her office lol.

Re: Question for BTDT moms Experience with a doula?

We had a doula and it was a wonderful investment! We birthed at NSUH Manhasset and I know with every fiber of my being that had I not had a doula present to help us advocate for ourselves, I would not have had an unmedicated birth.

Doulas (good ones) are not only helpful with helping you manage pain but in my case she was great at questioing the nursing staff (we had one round of nurses that were beastly...thank God for shift changes) and the attending physicans (our actual Ob was phenomenal but he didn't arrive until I was very near delivery).

DH and I also took a Bradley course which I highly recommend, if you are using an Ob at a conventional hospital then definitely hire a doula. I recommend Helen Dresner, she was great!