I have had the privilege of having Anna support me at 2 of my 3 births. And what a difference it made!
My first birth (without Anna) was long, confusing and difficult, and ended in using all of the drugs available despite my wish to do it naturally, and stitches. The second (with Anna) was only 2 hrs, just a little gas for pain relief and a much more enjoyable experience for both myself and my husband. Anna helped me with pain relief techniques, helped my husband support me better and helped us stay calm and in control of the birthing experience we wanted. (Her pain relieving massage was divine!)
My 3rd birth was very different, but Anna still supported us in the way we needed. I had a heart condition that made for a very medically managed birth with all sorts of drugs and monitors. It could have been quite scary but Anna helped us understand what was going on and kept us company, as well as helping with the baby directly after the birth when I had complications, so my husband could stay by my side. It was a relief to know someone I knew was with my baby when i couldn't be, then they swapped so she could help me while my husband bonded with his baby.
Initially I thought having a doula would mean I would have less control over my birth and it would impact on my husband's role. However it was exactly the opposite! She supported us in our decisions and just made it easier for my (nervous) husband to help and support me. And it was really nice to have a friendly face in a room full of strangers! She was also a great help with information and help before the birth and with breastfeeding after the birth. Anna is a fantastic doula and a lovely lady who is very committed to help women achieve the birth THEY want. I couldn't have been happier with her help!
Tamara Johnson
