Melissa Reid - In Bloom Birth Support

We really wanted to have a natural birth experience. In the end, we had to induce my birth, which resulted in a very intense "precipitous labor." I was intimidated by the drugs and scared that they would cause my contractions to be unbearable. Having Melissa with me was invaluable. Melissa reminded me that I was strong and powerful and that I could still have the birth experience that I wanted. Having Melissa's calm, knowledgeable voice reassuring me throughout kept me focused and in the moment. Melissa was an amazing source of emotional support. Melissa talked me through each contraction, reminding me to take them one at a time, to rest in between and telling me I was doing great. Hearing that I was doing great was like a welcome shot of confidence that I needed. Melissa told me that I could trust my body. I remember her telling me, "you can do it," and feeling very reassured. In addition to her emotional support her practical advice was also invaluable. Melissa reminded me to stay relaxed, to breath, to find my rhythm - all of which were totally necessary for getting through those contractions. It was so calming and reassuring to have her there suggesting different positions and comfort measures. I loved her hands on approach. I loved the acupressure and the massage. They were so helpful and comforting. When I think about how I felt during my labor, my overwhelming recollection is that I felt very loved and supported. I wish every woman could feel so much warmth and support while giving birth. I feel that having Melissa with me set me up for success - no matter how the labor went (if I did it naturally, or if I had chosen pain medications or even ended up with a C-section). I felt empowered and supported and successful and proud. And Melissa's support was a major part of my labor being such a good experience. I am now a believer that every woman deserves a doula. I am so glad I had Melissa with me.

Posted 9/23/2011

Melissa was a fantastic doula. She was hired on as a back-up doula but ended up being on-site for the entire labor. Melissa was very knowledgeable about the different techniques (walking, ball bouncing, nipple and ankle stimulation, etc) to use to try to bring on contractions when my labor stalled. She was also extremely supportive with encouraging words, breathing and blowing techniques, and husband support during my very fast labor. She was also very receptive of the times when I needed more assistance and the times that I needed her to back away. At no time did I feel like she was overstepping her role or not be supportive enough. At our post-partum visit she not only checked in to see how I was doing, but truly desired to know how life with a new baby was going. Asking questions on how my husband and I were doing in our relationship, how I felt about my body image, how my baby blues was doing, and giving a few 'what to watch out for' tips. I would highly recommend Melissa as a doula to anyone and look forward to using her in my future births.

Posted 2/25/2011