Okay, I know it's a bit soon for me to be planning childbirth at just 4 weeks but I'm looking at our finances and getting myself organised!!
I'm trying not to have too rigid expectations around childbirth but one thing I do know is I want to do it at home, with a birthing pool. I just can't stand hospitals. DH is dead set against the idea of a home birth (in case something goes wrong) - so we will need to discuss nearer the time! I also want to avoid medical intervention as much as possible - no C Section (unless unnecessary), no epidurals etc. I also firmly believe that pain can be managed with hypnotherapy and, while I'm not dead set against pain relief, I want all the help I can get managing that!
Anyway, I've found a really experienced doula in my local area who specialises in hypnobirthing. Her all inclusive package includes:
At least 4 hours worth of antenatal visits
At least 4 hours worth of post natal visits
Hypnobirthing course
24* 7 support (telephone, texting or email)
Calm and caring birth companion during birthing
Breastfeeding and parenting advise
Free hire of birth pool (worth over £100)
All her expenses (petrol, parking, food etc)
All this for £600 ($956).
DH is going to be horrified by this price - it's another month off work for one of us, with the baby. He's already unimpressed that I'm spending £80 on a private scan - remember, all healthcare is free in the UK but you get what you get....
What do you think? Was having a doula worth the expense? Is there anything I should think about before making a decision?