Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

Would you recommend hiring one? Would you have them come in as soon as you get home or would you do it when DH goes back to work? Do you have one that you specifically recommend? Did anyone find that it was not worth it?

I do not feel that I need one at the delivery (C-section), but if you feel otherwise, feel free to tell me why!

FYI--I am not sure if I will be BFing. I was undecided anyway and then I was placed on a heart medication. We have to see what happens with my condition and discuss the risks. I do not know if the condition will make my post partum time more difficult but I may get an indication as EDD gets closer.

I guess I should ask--If you had a rough pregnancy, would you be more inclined to hire a doula or would it have no bearing on your decision?

Message edited 7/16/2007 8:19:53 PM.

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

I was fortunate enough to have my mom help me for a couple of days. DH was unable to take off of work, and after the weekend, I was on my own. I really didn't find it that difficult. So, I would say no, you do not NEED to hire one.

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

I had a SLOW recovery and thankfully DH was home for 2 weeks. He did everything for me/house while I focused on my recovery and DS.

I would not have been able to do it without him.

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

My husband has been home with me - he's a teacher and honestly I coudln't have done it without him those first few days home. You can hardly move yourself around never mind do everything you need to for a newborn.

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

i had DH home with me, but i was pretty mobile. i was up and down stairs but it was nice being able to make him do the laundry and stuff.

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

Re: Ladies who had a post partum doula, especially C-section moms ??

My mom took a week off and stayed with me during the day for the first week since she used to be a nurse and I found it helpful. She didn't stay overnight with us but I really didn't need that - she lives a mile away so she would come over in the morning and then leave when DH got home from work.

DH doesn't get much vacation time - so he took three days the following week (he got 4 off since one was 7/4). But by then I really didn't need help so it was much better he took off then so we could have real bonding time -rather than taking care of me.