Leigh Ann's 3:what does a doula do to help during birth? I am skeptical about it b/c i am not really into a stranger being with me during the pain/passion of the labor delivery. I am also skeptical about my previous plan of having an epidural and everything being fine...it onl y numbed my legs last time and I felt everything...I was not prepared for that, but it went quick. Thanks...I am from the April 2010 board by the way...
You ask a good question! :) The other ladies did a great job of answering your question. I would also just like to add that a Doula does not have to be a stranger. A mother, sister, best friend, cousin can also be a wonderful Doula. I chose to hired a Doula because I no longer have my mom (she passed away), and although I love the ladies in my family- I just don't want them at the birth (if you know what I mean). Sometimes certain family members can be great... sometimes they can be more harm than good. It depends on what you want and how appropriate these people can be. I just feel that if someone is there... they better be helping (and not just standing there watching) which is what I have seen in my professional work as a doula. Also, I wanted someone there who is neutral and not someone who will get overly emotional. Sometimes its nice to have an outside voice (especially in the hospital where they are pushing interventions). Also, there are trained Doula's who have tons of experience in labor and delivery and they have many tools up their sleeve to assist you in your birth. They don't make the choices for you, but they help you have your voice in labor so you don't feel like things are just beyond your control. I hope I am explaining this properly. People have different reasons for having a doula at the birth. For me, I have major anxiety issues and I feel like I need an experienced women there with a calming presence. Like you, I had an epidural with my son that did not work correctly... I was stuck in bed in so much pain. A doula for me would be just a calming presence... assisting my husband and I at a very exciting and intense time. A doula is never there to replace Dad... but there to help, be an advocate, a shoulder to lean on, offer a hand to hold etc. Basically... Doula's rock. :)