I would highly recommend the use of a doula and specifically Cheryl for supporting you through your late stage pregnancy, birth and post-birth needs.
I was under the care of the Birth Centre, RBWH who are a fantastic team, but as a share care model there was little continuity in the support I received in the lead up to my birth and particularly during a long labour. As a first time mother, it was of huge benefit to have the coaching and support of such an experienced doula - someone who has been through 100's of births and understands the twists and turns of pregnancy and particularly birth. This experience means that Cheryl provides a very calming and steady hand - she's able to explain your options, slows your racing mind and ensures that you stay true to the birth you intended.
Our birth didn't "go to plan", yet despite this I was really satisfied and content with my birth, and avoided any trauma by having Cheryl, together with my husband, working as a team for the 24 hour labour.
For husbands/birth partners - it's important to know that Cheryl doesn't replace or reduce their role. In fact, I believe my husband was more confident and active during our birth as he'd had plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get to understand the process before he was suddenly in a room with medico's rushing about.
A doula works with you prior to the birth (we had multiple meetings with Cheryl in our home where she got to know us well and understand what we were looking for), and for six-weeks after birth. Again, it was a huge advantage to have someone so experienced at the end of the phone/text
with the endless new-Mum questions and also available to drop over at short notice.
I cannot recommend Cheryl and her services more highly. You'll feel in control and well supported to have a birth of your choice.
Give yourself the best chance of a positive birth in a hospital setting. A new book by one of Australias leading doulas, Cheryl Sheriff.
Sharing wisdom from her 30 years experience as a midwife and doula, and her presence at over 1000 hospital births.
After reading this book you will have more direction, and feel confident, excited and less daunted by the experiences to come.
