Has anyone tried a doula in England, UK? Attempting a VBAC for the second -

Hi, just following along as this will be my plan when I have my second one day! I felt completely bullied and pressured into my emergency C-section even though myself and baby weren’t in any form of distress, it was horrible, i 100% want a VBAC next time around xx

I hired a doula for my second and it was empowering to speak with her. I felt more relaxed knowing I wouldn't have to advocate for myself during labor. And my mom and husband could focus on me instead of trying to figure out how to speak with the staff. My body was very ready to have a VBAC and it went so smoothly! Depending on my pregnancy next time, I would consider hiring a doula again! (I'm in the US btw)

Hi! Had an elective section in August 23 due to baby being breech and no one gave me any confidence I could have a vaginal breech birth. I had a doula hired already and it would have been brilliant if I hadn’t of had a section. Not pregnant/trying yet but plan to next year and will 100% want a VBAC. My sister gave birth last week at home in the pool with her first baby. I was there. She had a doula and she was worth her weight in gold. Such an amazing woman. I will definitely be hiring a doula for my second. If you do you research, it’s completely safe to have a VBAC. you’re more likely to be struck by lightning than have a scar rupture!! I’d like a home birth VBAC which will be “out of guidelines” but I will be firm and stick by my decisions.

I had an emergency c-section in May 2023, fell pregnant 8 months later. My doctors didn’t pressure me to have a c section and were all very encouraging of a VBAC. That being said, I am a student midwife and I did stand my ground and firmly state from day 1 I would be planning a VBAC and that c section before 41 weeks was NOT an option, but nobody tried to tell me to have a c section or to talk me out of a vaginal birth

Following as I am in the same situation. I did hired a doula for first pregnancy/birth but still ended up getting an emergency c-section. I would perhaps try a different doula or an independent midwife.

@Beth what was their reason for pushing you to c section if you don't mind me asking?! Xx

@Elizaine Did you find her helpful still to have at the time? Was it medical beyond your control reasons for c section? X

@Paris I still feel it was helpful to have a doula. It was beyond our control. Even though it was not the birth I wanted as I was getting ready for a homebirth, it was the safest outcome for me and baby to have a caesarean.