Anyone use a doula or nanny?

[tricia]

Hi all,

As we get closer to our due date, I'm really thinking about a post-partum doula or even a nanny to help out once we get the babies home.

Has anyone used one of these resources? What are the pros/cons? I'm also not sure how expensive it would be, that may be the deciding factor. I'm just praying that I'm not too overwhelmed having two babies and a two year old to take care of!! (We don't live near any family, so that won't be an option.) As they say, it takes a village...

Any input would be really great! Thanks,

Tricia

 

[letswork]

Tricia,

You say "babIES" meaning you are having twins??????? AND a two year old at home????? I think if you don't have family nearby a doula or nanny might be just what you need. If you find someone who is truly a professional, they may be willing to work on a sliding scale based on your income.

I hired a doula for the birth of my second child and HIGHLY recommend it. Just having another woman (who was not related to me) to share my angst and struggles with was so helpful. She only came once after the baby was home, but we developed a friendship and we manage to stay in touch.

I think ANY support that mothers can find is not only helpful...but critical. Look into it doulanetwork.com or do a search on google to find someone certified in your area.

I wish you all the very, very best.

 

[tricia]

Letswork-

I love that name, BTW! Yes, I am having boy/girl fraternal twins sometime around New Year's. (My official DD is January 21, but they told me to be ready anytime after Christmas - we are targeting my 37th week, which falls on Dec. 31 for a possible delivery date.) I will have to have a Cesarean since a.) I had one with my first and b.) I am considered a high-risk pregnancy.

SOOOOO.......The idea of having some help at home is very appealing! My DH is planning to take some time off from work, but since he owns his own business and we can't seem to go through a whole week-end without one of the crew "dropping in" - I just don't see a consistent source of help on that end. Let alone the fact that our company is our income source, he will be keeping a close eye on everything I'm sure.

Thanks so much for the link to the doula network, I'm going to check it out next. I've always thought a doula would be a good idea, I didn't find out about them in time for my first birth. But I've read that there are post-partum doula's, and that is really what I'm interested in. Thanks for you kind words and input!

Tricia