ISO the perfect Doula

Hi! I used a Doula for the birth of my son last September and I guess I just want to share some advice. I wanted to do an unmedicated birth and that was what we aimed for, and prepped for during my pregnancy. My doula was amazing and so knowledgeable, she made me feel very at ease and comfortable. When I went into labor things were progressing quickly and she was there for it all, at some point things changed and long story short I was 12 hours into active labour and I was not dilated enough, by that point I had been in pain for so long and I was exhausted I made the very difficult decision to get an epidural (nothing wrong with getting one, it was hard for me because my expectation was to go through it without it). My Doula’s attitude completely shifted, she was upset I was getting one and I could see her disappointment/disapproval clearly, this made me feel so distressed after already dealing with my own feelings about it. My baby boy arrived healthy and that’s all that matters but

It was not a great experience, yes the birth was hard but feeling like I had to fight her to get what I needed and then feeling judged about it made the situation so much worse. I ended up not using the follow up appts. We paid for our Doula out of pocket. I still believe it’s a good investment because she took a lot of the fear away prior to giving birth and helped on the beginning of my labor. My advice would be to interview your doula before hand, ask about expectations. What happens if I want to change things from my birth plan when I’m giving birth? How would you feel about it ? And just feel things out. My Doula seemed very open minded but she was only open to what she believed in which was unmedicated births. I hope this helps you! I think if you can screen for these things you will have an amazing experience.

We’re did you find this info at I have Kaiser and want to hire a doula

@Bella how did you go about finding your doula? Is there a specifc website for that?

@Tiffany at my L and D tour the nurse there mentioned it. She said we have to find our own doula. Ask the doula for their tax ID and call customer service. I suggest call your Kaiser offices customer service and just clarify what info they need!

@Bella I’m sorry your experience wasn’t the best with your Doula! I do plan to interview a few Doulas and feel out who I think would be best! How did you find your Doula?

Just did thank you ! Unfortunately uou only get 8 hour combined total sadly

@Valeria Barillas she was teaching one of the birthing classes at the hospital I gave birth at!

@Tiffany but they still said it was up to 11 visits?