Nina Plate Doula Profile

 We are so thankful to have found Nina to be our doula. She helped to alleviate my fears by teaching me that birth was a natural process for my body. I was so amazed at how well she listened to our thoughts. It was important to her to individualize her care towards our needs and help make this the best experience possible. We actually practiced coping techniques and it was wonderful, I learned more that day than in all my previous birthing classes. She was always available by phone or email and would check in to make sure I was doing okay. It was great knowing she was there. Nina made a comment about "enjoying" our labor and I had never thought of it as something I could enjoy before. When the day finally came, I truly did enjoy my labor at home, before the hospital, by using the techniques Nina had taught us. We ran into a lot of unexpected difficulties, but Nina was there through it all with no sleep and a positive outlook. I was grateful that she had listened so well during our sessions, remembering that I need lip gloss to function and loved hydration, and would offer them to me before I even realized I needed them. After 36 hours of labor and 2 nights of no sleep, I finally decided to accept an epidural. She knew how much I did not want an epidural, but saw that I was confident in my decision, and supported me. It turned out to be the break my body needed, and within a few hours, I was ready to push. She was an amazing support to my husband as well, allowing him to take a nap, get something to eat, and helping him to know when to speak up to our doctor. After our baby was finally born, she stayed with us to make sure we were settled and comfortable. Her support is what made our child's birth a great experience and we could not have done it without her.

The experience of giving birth to my daughter is one that I will always remember fondly and cherish, and Nina Plate filled such an important role as my doula. Nina’s sincere passion for her trade could be felt from our first phone call through her last postpartum visit to my house. During my pregnancy she listened to my fears and wants, provided me with information, but never pushed me toward any ideology I wasn’t comfortable with. She provided a steady emotional base and was always willing to take a moment to talk with me. When my labor began, she responded quickly and was by my side from early contractions through almost a full day of labor. Nina helped me in ways my husband couldn’t, and her presence meant that he could step out of the room to talk with family members or take a much-needed rest. I felt more comfortable laboring with someone that I had a relationship with, who had also endured childbirth and genuinely knew what I was going through. Nina suggested different positions, provided techniques in naturally dealing with pain, and was always very aware of my wants and needs during labor – something I don’t think my husband or labor nurse could have done as well on their own. I feel very privileged to have had Nina with me during the birth of my daughter and would highly recommend her services.