Why should I consider a Doula?

"The doula we used got us through the first two weeks after my son was born,"
says Lee Madison of Northampton, Massachusetts.
"My partner and I had no idea what we were doing, and she made us dinner, took care of Willie, and kept the house clean. I got to nap and catch up on sleep and was glad I had after she left."

Maybe you don't have a willing mother or other relative ready to pitch in after you have your baby. Or maybe you'd simply prefer to use a doula's services instead of, or in addition to, a relative's help. Either way if you can afford to hire someone you'll find the help of a good doula invaluable. Even if your mate is eager to take over household duties while you recover, letting someone else do some of the work allows the two of you precious time with your baby and with each other.