Seeking Thoughts on Doulas

I used a doula for my birth and it was a great resource not only during my delivery but throughout my pregnancy. I was able to ask questions from her and learn alternative ways to resolve things that came up. Her father appreciated some of the support as well. I would highly suggest using one if you are going for a more natural childbirth.

My neighbor is a doula and is very nice. She stays quite busy due to referrals, so I would say that she's very good. Send me a message if you want her number...I don't have it on me.

I have a few friends that used doulas and absolutely loved having the extra personalized attention. The one friend did a home birth, the other a hospital birth.

During my current pregnancy, I am taking a pass on a doula as I don't like big crowds of people around me --I'm home birthing. I kind of wish I had one during my first labor. We had some issues with our midwife and it would have been nice to have someone there to support us.

Hi Patti,

I know of a doula, as I have done daycare for her son. She doesn't live in Naperville, but may be able to answer all your questions and help you find one in the area. Let me know if you want her #. See you later!

M. :-)

Hello, I used a doula for the birth of my son and always recommend one!!! I am actually now a doula serving the west/south west suburbs. Feel free to contact me if you like ###-###-####.

-Robin

Hi, I am a doula (no longer practicing) and I used doulas for both of my births. I really enjoyed having extra support for myself and also for my husband. I liked having the presence of a calming woman in the room with me...even though I also had awesome midwives. It was nice to have someone who wasn't also responsible for my medical care there. She could get my husband food. She could pray for me, give me a massage when my midwife had to step out or check my blood pressure, etc. She was also with me during earlier labor before my midwife was there and was able to give me suggestions and support. She also took photos for us so that my husband could be 100% present for me during the birth and made a few phone calls too.

You should find someone you feel comfortable around. Interview a few doulas at least so you can get a feel for who you might connect with.

You can go to www.birthlink.com to find doulas in the Chicagoland area. Or go to www.dona.org and run a search for Naperville.

Here are some suggestions from Dona.org about interviewing your doulas
...http://www.dona.org/mothers/how_to_hire_a_doula.php

Hope that helps. Blessings on your birth!

H. M.