When I was pregnant, I decided I wanted a doula to rub my shoulders and keep my family at bay, so I went to this birth supply store (don't ask) and looked through this book on doulas. Unfortunately, choosing a doula personals-ad-style was pretty random, so I just selected a couple folks, called 'em, and went with the one I liked best. That's why I was initially excited when I saw this article on choosing a doula or midwife--was there a better way than the route I went? Cuz lemme tell you what happened: The first sign there might be trouble was when she gave me this book of natural birth photos that had pictures of babies delivered in the backs of VW vans and crap. The next bad sign was when she said she "strongly discouraged" the use of epidurals (I had a natural labor birth plan, but wanted an open-minded person.) But I had chosen my doula, and so I forged ahead.
Long story short, when I was in labor, I HATED my doula. I was having back labor and was on pitocin and the contractions were wretched and this doula-woman was all in my face telling me to go "ohm." Once one bad contraction had passed I made a slicing motion with my finger across my throat at her and she backed off a little. I was in so much pain, all I really wanted was an epidural and a chance to watch Entertainment Tonight because at least it was utterly mindless. John Tesh calmed me down better than the woman I hired to help me.
Unfortunately, this article is less "Choosing a Doula" and more, "Maybe you should get a doula." Okaaaay, but how do you pick one? And this annoys me: "Pregnant moms interested in a natural, safe and relaxing birthing experience should consider using the services of [doulas and midwives.]" Oh, because I was hoping for an unnatural, dangerous, and stressful birth myself, so I guess I don't need one. Look, I'm pro-doula, but I'd still like a better guide to choosing one. Just in case I get knocked up again and John Tesh isn't free.
