@shanttc,

lol yeah you answered well. A doula is there as a resource during pregnancy to guide and comfort you. She is there in the early stages of labor to calm you and act as your "server". Helping to make sure you are hydrated, resting, comfortable....to help give breaks to the mothers partner. Doulas are known to reduce the need for pain relief as well as csections.

There are also postpartum doulas that are similar to a nanny/housekeeper

@arivera64, I'm sure since you are a professional & know what you are doing, so there is a ton of comfort in that alone! For us novices, I can't imagine attempting this without one. My husband will probably pass out at some point 😂

@shanttc, I'm also looking at postpartum doulas which can help you with sleep training, breastfeeding, etc.

Sry @arivera64 is what I meant to put there

Thanks. Yes I find it so odd that as a doula i don't want a doula. Maybe because I'm comfortable with my coping techniques. Yes i do belly binding, herbs postpartum for vaginal steaming, and placenta encapsulation

@shanttc, I'm sure @ can answer better, but basically it's a trained professional there to help guide you through the birth process. Doctors & nurses are there for your medical needs, a doula supports & your partner emotionally.

A doula? Huh? Lol

@arivera64, that is awesome! I have such an appreciation & respect for what you do. I think doulas are completely necessary!! I can't imagine trying to navigate birth without one....I have a professional to cut my hair, clean my teeth, etc but I'm going to just "wing it" with something as life changing as birth? 😱I don't think so!!! I see you do the belly binding too, that is so cool.

What is a doula? x

Nope but i am a doula! Glad that you found someone you like.