Excitement- I'm getting a doula :D

[Angel2fire]

I'm pregnant with my second child and a little bit terrified because I have a fear of nurses due to traumatic experiences in hospital.

I was told last time that I couldn't have a homebirth because it was my first baby/ I have physical health problems/ I have mental health problems/ the NHS is rubbish/ (insert reason here...) but after a lot of reading and talking to people it turns out that I might be able to :D So thats the first exciting thing.

The second is that I found out about something called the doula access fund (a doula is someone who supports you emotionally at the birth, but doesn't get involved in the medical side. They're mega expensive though, like £500!) and I've been accepted :D After emailing a few doula's I found one who is available and willing to accept me.

I'm super excited. If I do have to go into hospital it will be a lot easier having someone indepedant there to support me so that its not just me and my husband being classed as over-anxious or difficult.

I'm actually looking forward to having this baby now :D

[DarkPhoenix]

That's fantastic! I'm so happy for you!

[whirlpools]

That's great :) I think I would prefer a home birth to a hospital one if I ever get pregnant. Like the idea of my own surroundings and a birthing pool and my own bed etc.

[Fry]

That's brilliant news, and congratulations! :)

[Lotti]

Hey Just wanted to say that I read your post and wondered if id slept typed it myself or something! My first child I wanted a homebirth also due to a lot of hospitalisation and bad experiences, but due to a physical issue they werent keen. Me and my midwife agreed if normal/straight forward labour that it would go ahead, my gas & air was delivered and birthing pool bought! but if any problems id go to hospital.

Well I had complications which meant baby was at risk and I needed induced, but I was happy I planned for a homebirth with an open mind to hospital birth. My second was also a planned homebirth but she was large and overdue so risk of her getting stuck was too great. I had a very natural second labour however, despite being in hospital.

I would advise you plan for both, and keep an open mind. If everything is normal and going well home birth is great but the sign of any complications, be prepared to go in for both your safety. Fingers crossed for you, im sure you will have a wonderful experience with a doula! Congrats!