Christina Gutierrez

6/5/2023

I am so thankful to Marcela. I cannot imagine my birth experience without her. Our pre natal visits were incredibly informative, knowledgeable and supportive to my vision of my labor process. They were imperative in creating a support team with my husband. During my labor process, Marcela guided my husband to best support me. I was comfortable knowing Marcela was there with me. I was a first time mom and with Marcelas guidance during my labor I was able to have a natural vaginal birth with no intervention. She was a huge part on making the pain manageable and labor filled with a positive mindset of bringing my daughter to this world. After labor she was a great resource on everything from breastfeeding to sleeping schedule to physical/ mental selfcare. She was an advocate for me at the hospital and was completely non judgemental about my birth plan and choices. She also is well versed in everything I had questions on during and after my pregnancy. I cannot recommend her enough. 

Estoy muy agradecida con Marcela. No puedo imaginar mi experiencia de parto sin ella. Nuestras visitas prenatales fueron increíblemente informativas. Mi esposo enseguida aplico las técnicas que Marcela le enseñó para ayudarme mejor durante parto. Fui mamá primeriza y con la guía de Marcela durante mi trabajo de parto pude tener un parto vaginal natural sin intervenciónes. Ella fue una gran parte en hacer que el dolor fuera manejable ylo  hiciera con una mentalidad positiva de traer a mi hija a este mundo. Después del parto, fue un gran recurso en todo, desde la lactancia materna hasta el cuidado personal, tanto de la salud biológica como mental. Ella esta informada en todo lo que tenía preguntas. No puedo recomendarla lo suficiente.

Timeesha Magnus

5/17/2023

Where do I start? Marcela Moran-Chouteau is not only an amazing doula but an amazing human being! Though we met late in my pregnancy, right around 36+ weeks, after having our first conversation and discussing my plans for a vbac, I just knew she was God-sent. She understood the assignment of being a "doula," who had resources about preparations, mindfulness and how to tune in with your body. I felt that she spoke my language when it came to my faith and self-confidence that I could achieve whatever I desired, which was have a successful vbac. She made me feel heard and understood. She even asked was it ok to pray with me, when she saw that I needed a boost of encouragement during a moment of self-doubt in one of our meetings. I felt that her energy was definitely sincere, her awareness was high and her support was genuine. During labor, she was quick in responding to my needs, her calmness kept me calm and aligned to my purpose. Her support in every way was intentional. She even documented every detail of events from her arrival to our house to what happened up to baby's first latch. If that wasn't the best Mother's day gift for me, to have our story documented for us while we were laboring. During labor, up to me giving birth spontaneously in my car, she ensured me that I was ok and that my body knew exactly what to do. With the support of my husband and amazing doula, I've achieved my vbac. For our postpartum session, we discussed goals of breastfeeding and what my postpartum care looks like. This experience has truly been a blessing and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. If you're thinking to hire Mrs. Marcela Moran-Chouteau, know that you'll be in great hands. You won't be disappointed. Peace, Love & Blessings, Mamas!

Maianh Tran

5/1/2023

Marcela spent a lot of preparing time with us. We got to know her, she asked us informative and intuitive questions, discussed with us about our birth plan. Her birth plan template is very neat and time-oriented, which helped me to expect what’s drug the nurse going to offer me each stage.

On the at home visit day, Marcela brought 5 heavy books to lend it out, the book “ Birth from within” released me from my fear with labor, I walked into the delivery room ready to go to “war”. At my third trimester, Rush hospital worried me for another ultrasound as the baby was at 11th percentile, they may have to induce me, which went against my birth plan. Marcela was there to ensure me with growth restriction information, and that ultrasound results weren’t always accurate. She was right as my next appointment, the baby was at 34th percentile.
During labor, Marcela was my “bulletproof jacket “ as I was going to “war”. She was there to make sure they respect my birth plan like dim down the lights, give me my placenta, delay cord clamping,. ..When I was in labor, she made sure I feel the most comfortable as possible; putting down the towel on the floor as I was grinding through the pain on all four; passing my husband multiple of heat packs; making sure I’m snacking and hydrating. After birth, she helped me to breastfeed my baby right away and skin to skin with both mom and dad. She also took pictures throughout the stages which helped me later on organizing my thoughts on the birthing experience.

Marcela also paid us an at home visit for postpartum care; gave us some very good advice about what to eat,  mom guilt and how to enjoy the parenthood. Marcela is always there for us. She’s very disciplined and on time with replying to call, messages, and email. She made me feel ensured, safe, and calm. I’m beyond grateful to have Marcela as my doula.

Kira Bowman

3/22/2023

I had a wonderful, educational, compassionate experience with Marcela as my doula. Being a first time mom without any baby experience, I knew doula support will be the best option. Marcela was a great advocate for my needs and wants especially when I did not have a voice with doctors and midwives during labor. Marcela did excellent keeping me informed making sure I was comfortable and understood what the doctors and midwives were doing, keeping me hydrated, and helping with pain management. I am sensitive to pain and I did a natural birth. I would not have been able to survive my 19 hours of labor without Marcela's help. I am forever grateful for her services. She is an expert in her field. Displaying compassion, comfort, professionalism and her lifestyle alligned with mine. She have been helpful during my postpartum care checking on me and answering all of my questions. She is very knowledgeable with breastfeeding which is vital for babies growth. When I have my second child Marcela is my first choice for a doula. I highly recommend Marcela! 

Priscilla Padilla

12/3/2022

I had the opportunity of having Marcela as my Doula for my second pregnancy. I remember telling her that I wish I had her around for my first pregnancy. She is knowledgeable with research to back her up. I trusted her and most importantly felt comfortable with her.  She taught me and my husband laboring positions during our prenatal visit. Helped me the day I went into labor. Because of her help I was able to labor at home for several hours. She advocated for me at the hospital when I couldn't even get a word out during labor. She soothed me with tea, essential oils, and her soft voice (reminded me of my sister). It was important for me to have someone that I could count on during this process. I could not have gotten through it without her help. My son is 3 months old and she still checks in on us. I am forever grateful for Marcela. I have recommended her to all of my friends planning to expand their families. 

Daisy Montes

11/29/2022

Before I met my Doula, I was very nervous for my labor and delivery. I wasn’t sure what to expect since my first labor with my first child was not a good experience. When I met Marcela over a zoom call, she was very nice since the beginning and she has a very calming energy about her. Marcela was very informative. Since the moment we met she explained expectations of a Doula, different coping techniques , and labor preparation. One thing I appreciated was she always validated my fears and my experiences, and it made me feel like she really cared. She gave me a lot of tips and tricks to do to relieve pain during pregnancy, and also help me with preparation for labor and birth plan. Most importantly, she gave me the confidence to want to try and birth without medication. I found more confidence in myself, and to trust in my body , and I was able to get to labor without being induced which I was not able to do with my first . I was not successful at having the whole birth natural without epidural, but I’m still proud of the progress that I made by myself by trusting my body, and doing the tips and tricks that she gave me. She made me realize that birth does not have to be a traumatic thing. Instead, it could be very empowering when surrounded with educated supportive people. When the hospital would suggest another medical intervention I would look to her for advice and she always had a educated answer which was very helpful to me. I will always be thankful to Marcela for her hard work and dedication that she gave me in the labor room. She never left my side and made me feel very loved and supported. My son was born with a cleft palate, and I was not aware of it until birth, and I was visibly shocked. Marcela didn’t leave my side and made sure I was OK and even found out more information for me. Overall I had a positive experience and I don’t think I would have been able to achieve that without the warm help from my doula.

Krystina P

11/22/2022

Oh my gosh Marcela is the absolute best! I don't think my journey would have been so comforting if it weren't for her! She is the sweetest, most attentive, engaged, undoubtedly present doula and personable doula. 

I had already had 2 c-sections and was going for a vbac. Marcela took the time to get to know my history, as well as my traumas and what I wanted going forward. She was super friendly to my kids and listened to my husband's concerns. She often reminded us that he was an important aspect of pregnancy, labor and delivery too.  

When I went into labor hubby and I were so frantic and scared but Marcela maintained a calm soothing voice. She stayed in contact with us til it was time to head to the hospital. Once she arrived you knew she was there but she was so smooth with her interaction it was never overbearing. She offered guidance, took valuable notes, invaluable photos all while maintaining peace in our room. 

Post delivery Marcela checked in with us and still took time to listen and be present just as she did from day 1. I'm so glad we hired her! She'll forever hold a special place in our hearts.

If you want to feel absolutely special as a woman throughout pregnancy, labor, delivery and beyond, you NEED Marcela! Her connection is like none other! 

Bruna Jerzyk

11/9/2022

My husband and I literally prayed for Marcela to be our doula as soon as we found out we were going to have a baby, because we knew how amazing she is as a professional, as a person and as a friend. Having her support was fundamental as we stepped into a whole new journey as future parents.
I remember being scared of the labor and a little nervous for my second pregnancy- I have had a miscarriage before. But Marcela was always available to me whenever I had questions and she was constantly checking up on me. She was also a great help to my husband, because we learned that doulas are for dads too!

I planned on a natural birth, but I had to go through a c-section because my baby was breech and wasn't able to turn head down. I still had Marcela with me giving me all the support I needed, physically and emotionally. And as I came home with a newborn, having to adjust to my new life, Marcela was a great source of information that made the whole difference and also a safe place for me as my hormones were going crazy!

My husband and I are really grateful for having a doula like Marcela and we cannot think of going through a pregnancy without a support like hers. Thank you Marcela!

Ivette

9/20/2022

I was put in contact with Marcela a week before my due date because my doula and her family tested positive for COVID. Marcela and I met via video call and had a wonderful experience with her. Her and my previous doula made it an easy transition and I felt comfortable with Marcela immediately. I was so grateful she was able to take over and assist me.
This was my second pregnancy; I was induced with my first baby and the second came spontaneously. It was a very different experience, but Marcela supported me the 26 hours I was in labor. I communicated with her via texts and phone calls until I went to the hospital. She gave me tips on what movements to try, what to eat and what to do while I was in early labor. It was so amazing to have someone supporting me this way! When I look back on it now early labor went well because of Marcela’s support. She also helped me labor at home longer which was a goal of mine. Things she shared that helped me: miles circuit, meditations to sleep while in labor and during labor, foods to eat during labor that would keep me hydrated and give me energy, distracting activities like going for a walk, taking a bath, watching a movie etc.
Marcela was there for the labor and afterwards, she gave me tea and applesauce after I gave birth, took lots of pictures for us and was there to chat, all of which I appreciated SO much! It was a wonderful experience to have her with us, the support helped more than I expected.
Afterwards I had difficulties breastfeeding and my mood was negatively affected by it. She once again shared lots of resources and made sure to check in with us. She also connected me with lactation support.
I learned so much from her about pregnancy, labor and postpartum. I’ll always be grateful for all her support.

Liz C.

9/7/2022

Having Marcela's support as a doula through my pregnancy and at my delivery was invaluable.  She frequently checked in and was always available to answer any questions. While anything can happen in a birth, I felt extremely prepared and I can't have imagined it going any better. The tools, resources, and references that she provided helped me advocate for myself throughout my pregnancy and as I gave birth to my perfect little one. I am so grateful to have worked with her.

Izalia and Rosendo Ruiz

8/13/2022

Marcela was a wonderful asset to our birth plan. She is kind, caring and very knowledgeable. We would definitely recommend her services to any expecting parents, specially first time moms. She was always willing to listen to my concerns through the pregnancy and helped us find evidence-based information about topics that we needed more information on. With her guidance and encouragement we were able to find the healthcare team that understood our needs. This helped us obtain the birth experience we sought after and we can honestly say we had a wonderful experience.

Courtney

6/13/2022

Marcela was the doula for our first baby. We were back and forth about whether we wanted a doula but decided to hire one for the labor and delivery support. Here are some of the top benefits I experienced from having Marcela be our Doula.

1. She has a very calming presences and voice. She is so gentle and kind. 
2. Marcela shared helpful techniques and coaching that my husband and I used to help labor at home. 
3. My labor process lasted from Weds evening to Friday morning so she was able to help support and allow my husband to rest for part of the process.
4. I had some complications after I delivered and she was able to stay by my head and help share what was going on and comfort me while my husband held our baby when she was first delivered.
5.  Marcela was very accessible and responsive and proactive with communication throughout my pregnancy and labor process. 
6. I really appreciated the birth log Marcela kept for us, my husband and I both didn't really remember what was going on or what happened when during the labor process and it was so helpful to have a record. 

Yumahara

3/16/2022

Tuve la fortuna de contar con el apoyo de Marcela durante mi embarazo, parto y post parto y la verdad es que agradezco haber tomado la decisión de buscar una doula para apoyarme durante estos momentos tan importantes de mi vida. Marcela no solo esta comprometida con el bienestar de las mujeres a las que provee acompañamiento sino que se asegura de otorgar las herramientas necesarias para que tomen decisiones que honren su intuición y convicciones. En mi caso, ella estuvo siempre al pendiente de la evolución de mi embarazo, los malestares físicos que llegue a presentar, mis citas de seguimiento médico asi como mi preparación para el parto y las dudas que mi esposo y yo teníamos sobre el mismo.

Marcela me proporcionó materiales de lectura, videos, e información de diversas fuentes y ademas se aseguró de resolver mis dudas para que yo pudiera armar un plan de parto que tomara en cuenta mis necesidades (incluyendo mi bienestar físico y psicológico).

De igual manera, ella jugó un papel fundamental durante mi labor de parto al estar presente, preguntarme como me sentía, que necesitaba, estar al tanto del avance del parto y animarme en los momentos en que mis ánimos decaían o que el cansancio comenzaba a invadirme. Gracias a esto me mantuve fuerte y mi bebe nació por parto normal.

El profesionalismo y compromiso de Marcela es enorme. Ya sea por llamada, videollamada, mensajes o visitas a casa, ella siempre estuvo al tanto de como me sentía y procuraba darme ejercicios, herramientas, recetas naturales, etc que contribuyeron a mi salud y bienestar. Me siento totalmente agradecida de haber tenido una doula tan bien preparada y que ademas habla español, que es mi lengua materna. Sin duda, recomiendo los servicios de Marcela en un 100%. Estoy muy agradecida de haber contado con su apoyo.

Jean Carlos

2/18/2022

Hi, my name is Jean Claudio and this is my small testimonial 

I not only had the opportunity to know Marcela but the pleasure. Marcela was with us in our journey to be new parents and we are lucky we had her. Her attention, words, love, dedication, and details was something that we really needed at the moment. Marcela was also very open to talk about any topic related to pre and postpartum with me and my wife and to clarify any questions we had. I recommend Marcela for so many reasons but specially because she's genuine and she really know what she's doing. 

The day my wife was giving birth, she arrived as soon as we told her we were in labor. Our hospital was far from her and it didn't matter, she was there prepared and never left my wife a second. She brought from essential oils to bring a relaxed atmosphere to the room, but she was wise enough to ask my wife first how she was feeling at the moment with smells. Those details are quite valuable for me and my partner. 

Andrea

1/24/2022

Marcela was  amazing from day one when she reached out to me when she became my Doula. she's very open and honest.. She understood my birth plan and made sure it was Followed out to plan when I had my son.. Marcela even gave me more information to put on my birth plan if I thought it would benefit me.. she's a very amazing person ,her energy when I have my son was great and I recommend her to anyone. 

Andreea H

1/6/2022

I met Marcela in the hospital while I was in labour to deliver my 3rd child. She was a volunteering doula, and was partnering with the hospital where I was. I met Marcela on the second day of being induced. My labour was not progressing, although I was on continuous oxytocin.

When the midwife presented to me my options going forward, Marcela helped me understand what was safe for baby and me and pointed out the right questions I had. She walked with me through making my decision on how I wanted to proceed from there. She never once imposed on me her point of view but asked me how I wanted my delivery to be and guided me on how to go about that.

When my labour became intense and very painful (I chose a natural delivery), she coached me to cope with the pain, massaged my back, applied cold compresses on my neck and shoulders, guided my husband how to help me, and was by my side non stop. She spoke words of encouragement over me to give me strength as I was already tired, and she helped me think through how I wanted my delivery experience to be from there. She helped me focus on my breathing and as a result my contractions became manageable with her guidance.

She also described to me each of the steps of the delivery process before they came and as I entered each one of them she encouraged me to keep going even when I wanted to quit.

With her help I was able to have a quick, natural delivery, once the contractions started.

In the first moments after delivery she took pictures of my husband cutting the ombilical cord of our baby, and the first moments of me meeting the baby. These are invaluable memories caught on camera that I would not have had without her being there.

Marcela is an excellent doula and I highly encourage you to invest in her services as you will be grateful for the rest of your life for having her by your side during one of the most important moments in your life.

Annelise Crumb

12/1/2021

As a first time mom, in the middle of the pandemic, and a bit of a worrier, I knew I wanted some extra support other than my husband on the day I gave birth. My friend recommended Marcella to me, whom I had met once before, and remembered her calm, caring and sweet energy. I wanted someone who would partner with me and advocate for my decision to have as natural and non-invasive pregnancy and birth experience as possible. I felt confident Marcella would be that person! My prenatal meetings and conversations with Marcella were great. She always asked me how I was feeling, both physically and emotionally. She gave me great resources, for prenatal support and birth preparation. She was very sweet and supportive through my emotional struggles during pregnancy as well. During birth, I had such great peace of mind with Marcella by my side, knowing she knew my birth plan and would step in and advocate for me when I couldn't. She prayed over me, supported me,  encouraged me, and spoke for me when I needed it. When I felt like I wanted to give up, she reassured me of my strength and how amazing I had done so far. I could not have asked for a better birth experience! I would recommend Marcella a thousand times over. She is truly a wonderful doula!

Tianna Griffin

11/24/2021

Marcela is such an amazing doula I only wish I meet her sooner and got to experience her talents much earlier in my pregnancy. I spoke with Marcela a few days before I went into labor (over the phone, and then a video chat). I instantly felt her support and passion for what she does. She has a very calming and relaxed demeanor. I knew right away she was the perfect fit for me! Her calming nature is so important for such a life changing experience as it can be easy to be distracted from the waves associated with labor and delivery. Marcela was helpful right from the very start of my labor by providing information on how labor typically progresses and being available for all my questions. During my labor she offered various coping techniques such as, ginger, water, and essential oils, to name a few. She helped me get into various positions to help my labor progress and constantly helped me to keep my body moving. Marcela was helpful in helping me cope with my unplanned and unwanted cesarean. Having her support was so important to me, as she witnessed so much of what I had gone through. Having her to talk to was therapeutic. She offered tools such as the wheel of emotions to process the whole experience and just a ear to hear me hash out my grevensous. Her tools continue to help me process my birth. Marcela was so impactful in my birth experience I only hope that everyone can experience the love and support that I did during my labor and delivery journey.

Maria

11/20/2021

Marcela was an irreplaceable help and support throughout my delivery, but was also a blessing during pregnancy and postpartum. I cannot recommend her enough! 

When I first asked her to be my doula, she made herself available and provided me with resources and information to aid in my pregnancy and preparation for birth. She checked in with me throughout my pregnancy to offer encouragement and a listening ear. 

During labor, Marcela showed up before the midwives (I had a homebirth). She gave me lots of options for pain management including massage, affirmations, visualization, etc. I had back labor which was excruciating at times but Marcela was always there to apply pressure on my hips releaving the tension - it was amazing! I asked my husband to do it once and he just could not do it the way Marcela did.  

Throughout labor she was encouraging and present but not overbearing or in my face. Marcela was discerning of what was needed when and was a peaceful reassuring presence throughout my 10+ hours of labor and delivery. 

I am so thankful Marcela was my doula and would hire her again in a heartbeat for my next birth (except now I live out of state:( ). If you're considering a doula, choose Marcela - you won't regret it! 

Mayra

11/15/2021

Having the support of my doula Marcela during my first birth was essential in turning what could have been a negative and traumatizing experience into one that left me feeling accomplished, powerful, and grateful. As a first time mom, "not knowing what I don't know" caused much anxiety and insecurity, but having someone that had experience in assisting mothers with childbirth provided me with a much needed sense of reassurance and peace that translated into confidence when it mattered the most.

Though I had planned for a natural unmedicated birth, everything I had planned for changed in an instant when I learned that my elevated blood-pressure had suddenly developed into preeclamsia the day of my induction. Thanks to the emotional and physical support of Marcela, I was able to shift my focus away from feeling defeated and afraid into preparing for what I needed to do next. Having a doula allowed me to adapt mentally and emotionally and I was able to overcome the medical challenges that kept coming my way and I was able to deliver my baby vaginally. Marcela also played an important role in facilitating communication between myself and my mother and my child's father, and this allowed me more space to focus on my labor.

During my pregnancy Marcela provided emotional support that promoted compassion for myself. This support became invaluable postpartum when I unexpectedly found myself having to care for a newborn as a new single parent. Marcela checked in on me postpartum and connected me with other resources to help with breastfeeding and other postpartum support. 

Thanks to the support and compassionate care of Marcela, my labor and postpartum experience has transformed me into a confident mother that is grateful for every step of my journey, no matter how scary, painful, or unexpected.

Rachel

11/11/2021

Marcela was my doula for my second and third children, and I plan on hiring her again for our current fourth child's birth. She made such a difference to us! Her spirit is so gentle and feminine, attentive and kind, that it calmed me, strengthened me, aided me during the hardest times, and encouraged my resolve to stay strong throughout the labor. She made me feel cared for and safe during a time you most desire those two things. It felt safe to feel weak - helping me to surrender to and stay calm during the powerful intensity of labor. She also has a living faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and prayed for me incessantly during labor, which was powerful and comforting. Additionally, she gave me some birth mantras and scriptures that I had printed off and put on the ceiling and the walls where I labored - I cannot say enough how powerful and encouraging those were to me! My husband and I would highly recommend Marcela for any birthing woman!