Hi Ladies,
so some of you know what I'm trying to do for my birth, but here's a run down for those that don't (might be a bit long sorry)

So... my first birth was pretty ordinary (read Crap!) and this time I would like to get a Doula, I have heard good things about them and would really like someone who was going to be there for me, and not their own self interests (read MOTHER!)

The problem is this...

I live on a station 7 hours from the nearest hospital, now the going into labour thing is taken care of, I have booked the birthing house to stay at for 3 weeks (2 before and 1 after) at Port Augusta so thats not an issue (it's cheap too! $60 for the whole time, the rest is covered by gov funding! woot!)
My Doula (whoever she is- looking at two different ones at the moment) lives in Adelaide, which is 5 hours drive from Port Augusta.

Now If I get a elective Induction this is not going to an issue, but I can't count on that..

My question is do I get the Doula or not? Please be brutally honest, because It's quite a bit of money to fork out for a doula who may not get there in time, or be there for anything but the pushing stage, and that is the reason I want one... for the first few stages...

I know 5 hours is not long, however my DS came in 7 hours...

What other options do I have besides a Doula? (if someone says my mum! ) I could have just anyone, but I really want the experience that comes with a Doula or trainee Doula or someone who has had a Doula and can offer suggestions re positions, pain control etc (I spent the entire birth last time on my back.. not happy!)

Anyway.. that's it, sorry for being so long... remember, please be brutal! speak your mind! lol