Could you please share your Doula experience?

I haven't decided yet if we'll use a doula for #2 (coming in Nov), but only because I don't feel the same need for information. I'm hoping that my DH will be more of a comfort to me this time around as well - sorry to say that while I was having contractions he was driving me a little crazy in the labor ward with his suggestions that I didn't find very soothing or helpful. He is so lovely and just wanted to help, but I couldn't stand to hear anything he said..my response was so unexpected and I still apologize to him to this day! My doula on the other hand was calm and nurturing and just exactly what I needed. Don#t worry all mum do this its perfectly normal, they got you into this situation they should get a little flack for it ;-)

I can personally say our Doula was a god send for both my husband and I. I gave birth 7 weeks ago, and frankly I would have been at a loss with out her. As this was my first baby, I had no idea what to expect, so her advice and guidance before and during labour was a blessing. To be honest she was there as much for me as she was my husband, it was nice for him to be able to leave the room and have a break during labour and also know that he had some one there to talk to and discuss any concerns etc. For me the best bit was after we brought DD home, Andrea (our Doula) was able to visit and help with BF'ing, as I had supply issues. That was a tough time for me and her support and positivity was priceless. The rates given by lizard below are in line with what we paid, and with regards to City, I understand that though the ban is still in force, Doulas still get in, effectively they are a 'friend' there to support you and the hospital can't stop that. I would highly recommend Andrea from the doting doulas. Hope this helps and good luck.

Hi Dallydoo. I used a doula for my first baby and can highly recommend. We don't have family in the UAE either, and although the medical care you can get here is top notch I still felt more confident going through it all with someone friendly to hold my hand (literally) and to serve as a medically informed but impartial coach. We used a woman who was actually still in training, so she charged only 1000 dhs, which is much less than a certified doula would. I think for certified you'd be looking at btwn 2500-3000. Personally I really clicked with my doula and since they're not allowed to give medical advice anyway, I figured that one still in training would be perfectly fine. She met with me a total of five times: once when I interviewed her, twice for the antenatal information sessions (in our home), then during labor (she offered to come to my home when labor started but things happened quickly so she just met us at the hospital), and then once for a follow up session to help with sleep and bfeeding issues. She was also available at any time by phone when I had questions. For me the perks of using a doula: *They tend to be pro-natural birth but are completely supportive of any choices you wish to make regarding epidural, c-sec, etc. *The pre-labor meetings serve the same purpose of going through ante-natal classes, so you could feasibly skip the classes, or take them and feel double prepared (which is what I did). *(This last point was true in my case at least) A doula will provide you with a written account of your birthing experience...what time you called her to say you were going into labor, how the contractions were and what action was taken, who said what and your replies, and then of course the big moment when baby is born. I am SO happy that I have this birthing story for my first child to read someday because I know that I'd never have remembered so many of the details with such accuracy. It makes me cry every time I read it. I haven't decided yet if we'll use a doula for #2 (coming in Nov), but only because I don't feel the same need for information. I'm hoping that my DH will be more of a comfort to me this time around as well - sorry to say that while I was having contractions he was driving me a little crazy in the labor ward with his suggestions that I didn't find very soothing or helpful. He is so lovely and just wanted to help, but I couldn't stand to hear anything he said..my response was so unexpected and I still apologize to him to this day! My doula on the other hand was calm and nurturing and just exactly what I needed. Regarding City's policy, the last I heard there are no doulas allowed in the delivery room. That may have changed though, so better to check if you're really set on having your baby there. You should also check with your ob to make sure she/he is cool with having a doula in the delivery room. Hope that helps you with your decision. The Doting Doulas is where I found a recommendation for my doula. :)