Has Anyone Used a Doula or Visiting Nurse?

We used a post-partum doula after my the birth of our first and only child. He was born by c-section and I was totally unable to bend or move for weeks. I couldn't keep up with laundry, household stuff afterwards so she helped a lot with that. Mostly, though, she was so helpful with advise on whatever I had questions about -- breastfeeding, sleeping, my healing, and she helped me feel supported and she encouraged me to nap while she got things done for me. I highly recommend it if you can afford it.

I have not, but I know people who did and they loved it! It sounds like a dream to me, so if you can put $ aside for it I would :-) Also, from what I was told you didn't have to go to the hospital for anything, they come to you.

I had a doula for my pregnancy and labor and she was wonderful. She was available to answer questions when the birth center was closed - obviously had there been an emergency she would have had me call my midwife or go to the hospital. During labor she massaged my pressure points to help relieve pain and she was also able to stay with me when my husband needed a break to go to the bathroom or get a drink of water. She didn't do as much postpartum but she still keeps in touch and my son is 19 months old. I actually found her, or rather she found me, here on mama source, I had put out a request much like yours and she happened to read it. Good luck, I hope you find someone who is a good fit.

I would make contact with local doulas in your area to see if they have availability for you next month. It would certainly be beneficial for her to actually be there when you give birth/after at the hospital to help you get the right start on breastfeeding. I have a friend who is a doula and she loves it. It is such a rewarding career to for her.

You should be able to google doula Connecticut and see if a state or national association pops up that can lead to you doulas in your area.

You might also consider a lactation consultant if you can't find a doula on such short notice.

A visiting nurse probably wouldn't be my choice unless they specialize in post-pardum and breastfeeding. The doula or LC def. specialize in that!

I think it would be worth it. I did not use one with my first child and if the hospital here did not have a limit to 2 people total in the room with me (since it will be my stepmom and husband) I would use a doula this time. My neighbor who is also a friend is a doula and it sounds wonderful all the stuff she does during delivery and after.
She can also help with breastfeeding...but you can also ask to see a lactation consultant at any time after birth.
Good luck! :)