Seeking midwife experience without/with a doula

Preconception & Pregnancy Midwives
1

I am expecting our first baby and will be delivering with a midwife (Maria Greulich) at Los Gatos hospital. I am currently considering a birth doula but am not sure if I need one since I have a midwife. What is other people's experience on the matter -- would you have liked a doula or did you use a doula? Was the midwife less hands-on and less involved if the doula was involved during birth?

For my midwife, she may not be 100% of the time there depending the time and day of labour since she is in a practice with an OBGYN and has patients. If anyone has any specific birth experience with my midwife please do comment.

Thanks a lot for the help!!

2

I used a doula and was very thankful to have someone who was looking after me and not focusing solely on my son. Even if the price is high, I highly recommend gettting one especially with a first child. I read everything under the sun before giving birth, but having a doula reassured my husband and I as each event unfolded. Even if your husband is present and "prepared," a doula can take charge and go get food for him or give you or he a massage or just talk you through a part of the labor...Also, don't be afraid to bargain with a doula over price. Many are willing to consider financial situations.