Deb Correia Doula Profile

My wife and I were not really sure what a doula was and how she could assist my wife who seemed to be in constant pain due to her contractions. We also wanted the birth of our child to be private matter due to cultural differences. The nurse then told us that at any point that we did not want the doula in the room then she would leave. My wife and I agreed to speak with this doula. The attending nurse introduced us to Ms. Deb Correia (#1861) who seemed to have a calming affect as she entered the birthing area and began to speak. Ms. Correia introduced herself to us and asked if we wanted her assistance. During this time my wife was in so much pain that she didn't oppose. Ms. Correia immediately began to apply certain pressures and techniques that appeared to help relieve my wife from the more intense contractions she was experiencing. Ms. Correia seemed to take away some of our anxieties and stress as she explained the birthing process and how to cope with the pain my wife seemed to be going through. My wife's pain seemed become more intense, but Ms. Correia stayed with her and talked her through it. Completely exhausted after being up for over 26 hours, my wife opted for the epidural shot so that she could rest. Ms. Correia then left her business card and told us that she would return at our request. After the epidural shot took effect, my wife's pain seemed to subside significantly. My wife was so appreciative of Ms. Correia's services that she was more than willing to have Ms. Correia witness the birth of our child. My wife soon fell asleep and Ms. Correia returned and had conversation with me. Not only had she assisted my wife, she was also quite encouraging to me! This is an amazing person who we will always remember and likely acquire her services if we have any future children. When my wife dialated to 10 cm, Ms. Correia again was hands on and asssiting where she could. As our baby was born Ms. Correia captured every moment by taking pictures of the birth.

I was in contact with Deb few weeks before my due date and she told me that I will be her first experience. At first I was a little skeptic about her lack of practical exprience as a doula but her personality and concerns made me decide to have her as my next to me in one of life's most improtant moments. Her presence in the delivery room, at the University of Washington, was indispensible. I didn't have any family member in the delivery room due to several reasons but outside. If I could express what I felt at that moment, she was the most compassionate person being there for me, trying to address my needs. Above all during my labor, she helped me to breath properly. As I said to her ' you reminded me to breath, thanks for that." She is also the first person to hold my baby next to the medical team and myself. If that and all other reasons, she will remain to be dear in my and my family's heart. I gave birth to my baby girl on 18 March 2010 at the University of Washington at 9:34 am. Without the presence and help of Deb the delivery and labor could have been difficult. Thus, I am grateful for all her support and comfort. I will definetly recommend her for similary tasks or responsibilities.