What did my doula do for me? I had two, but I'm going to use the singular for this because they were both equally as important for me achieving an empowered birth.

She debriefed with me my first birth. She gave me lists of books to read & boost my knowledge of my choices. She helped me write a birth plan. She helped me find resources where I live like Calm Birthing. She was on hand during nasty OB appointments where I could go outside & call her than go inside completely supported and with more confidence.

During labour... I think it was vital having a doula. What I wish I had done differently was call my doula that was going to be there during labour to the hospital with me. I had my doula in Melbourne on the phone in the early early stages while I paced around the house excited about it all happening. I then took some time alone going through things & in the shower. I woke up DH & he convinced me to not call the other doula in when we first got there, he said to wait... I wish I had phoned her on our way in & said see you in an hour or two. Instead I laboured on with an extremely tired DH for 4 hours before she got there.

Thats the only thing I wish we had done differently. I debriefed this birth with both wonderful women and felt so empowered by my choices.

ETA: Very very positive experience.