Zoe

8/29/2022

When my husband and I made the decision to give birth at a hospital, we knew we wanted some extra help and support. During our very first meeting with Meagan, she immediately made us feel comfortable and confident. She helped us with a lot of clarity and preparation throughout the second half of my pregnancy and made us feel so much more confident going into birth. Thanks to her, we ended up switching to a fantastic midwife clinic where I got wonderful care.

I’m a testimony to births not always working out the way we plan for them. I had planned for a natural birth, but after several complications, I ended up induced at 34 weeks for severe pre-eclampsia. But Meagan was with us every step of the way. She was my first call or text after my husband when I left each appointment and was a constant support and encouragement through all my anxiety and fear. During the long induction process she was often on the phone with us helping us made tough decisions about how to move forward. She arrived at the hospital as I was getting prepped for an emergent csection and was able to be in the OR and with us all the way through recovery. My husband really appreciated Meagan’s presence there for him while my midwife was taking care of me. Following the surgery, Meagan checked in on us often to see how we were doing and continues to support us and celebrate our boy even a year after!

While our birth story wasn’t exactly typical and wasn’t what we imagined, we are so grateful for Meagan and we sincerely don’t know how we would have made it through without her unfailing support. Doulas are not just for home births or vaginal births. Not just for hip squeezes and hands-on labor support. I’m sure Meagan does all that very well, but Meagan will be there for you - whatever happens - to encourage, educate, advocate, and support. I can’t recommend Meagan enough, and we are so grateful that she has been part of our story!

Catharine

2/23/2022

My husband and I contacted Meagan in my third trimester after reading how working with a doula can be so helpful in having a positive birth experience. Meagan is very in-demand, and came recommended from our provider, so when it turned out she had a last-minute window of availability, we felt lucky. I recommend you contact her far in advance as I now realize just how lucky we were!

For our final weeks of pregnancy, it was a relief to know we had Meagan on our team. This decreased our stress: Instead of trying to memorize the birthing tips and anticipate all that could happen during labor, my husband and I were able to prep at our own pace while knowing we had an expert to rely on during birth. This alone allowed us to enjoy the final weeks and not feel guilty when we spent time doing our professional work rather than "studying" for the impending birth. Meagan also helped provide streamlined information most necessary for us to prep - so useful when there’s so much content out there.

During the birth, Meagan guided us when labor began sooner than we anticipated and were not sure whether it was actual labor. At the hospital, she helped me move through different positions and expertly eased my contraction waves with hip squeezes and intuituve, calming touches. Having her calm, supportive presence made me feel secure in some moments when I otherwise would have been fearful and likely would have diverted from our birth plan. She made sure I was drinking fluids, helped my husband be involved, and during a busy night at the hospital, made sure that our requests were fulfilled. It was also pretty neat that she knew our providers and nurses after working at so many births! On top of all of that, she took incredible photos that have enabled me to relive the birth experience and will be so valuable to recount to our son when we tell him the story of his arrival - a story that is so positive due to having Meagan on our team!

Bellamy Willis

2/10/2022

Birth is such a connecting experience. When we decided to have a VBAC homebirth, we knew we would need a supportive environment. From the moment we met Meagan Thompson of About Birth, I knew she would have a special place in our birth. Through all our prenatal visits, she took time to prepare us practically for birth but she also spent just as much time helping us get emotionally prepared as well. At one of our last meetings before our son was born, Meagan casually remarked "I just have a really good feeling about this birth." While many around us were speaking doubt and fear about the birth, her words rang of not only ability, but excitement! The phrase she spoke even became my mantra during the hardest parts of the birth. It was exactly what I needed to hear.  The night I went into labor, we learned the true power of love and sacrifice that a skilled doula like Meagan brings to the birthing team. She did counterpressure FOR HOURS, and gently reminded my husband to take breaks for himself. Etched in my mind forever will be when in the midst of my transition, I squeaked out "I feel like I'm not managing my pain well." Meagan quickly remarked "You could have fooled me!" and my laugh and her belief in me changed the entire dynamic from desperation to ability. She was there for it all, active, involved and inventive, she fought right alongside us. One of my favorite memories was seeing her beaming after our son was born, she was as proud as us! THAT to me is what a doula does and is. Meagan was so invested in our desire for our birth, she became like family. We had no idea when we hired her, the lasting impact she would have on one of the most important nights of our lives, but I know it was successful AND beautiful, because she was a part of it. Meagan is such a wonderful gift to the local birthing community and I wish everyone could experience her presence at their birth! 

Melissa

11/12/2021

There are so many good things I can say about Meagan and her support during my pregnancy, labor, and delivery. While we had no idea going into it that I would labor for nearly two full days, ending up repositioning the baby after the first day and ending up electing to get an epidural, Meagan was there for us the entire time in so many ways that I couldn't have even predicted. I knew early in my pregnancy that I wanted to have a doula on my team to help support me and advocate (if necessary) and I knew after our first in person visit that Meagan was exactly the right person for us. Her calm, thorough, direct, and open approach helped me figure out answers to questions I didn't even know needed to be considered.

All throughout my pregnancy it was helpful to know that I had Meagan as a resource if I ever needed help thinking through a problem or if I had a question and didn't know where to turn first. I found that her insights into what is normal or common as far as procedures at the hospital, a provider's approach or personality, etc. were particularly helpful so I could know what to expect or how to gauge a situation. Our post-delivery follow up was also incredibly necessary and helpful after such a long labor and delivery experience. We were able to debrief with Meagan and get a clearer picture of what happened and when, which helped fill in the gaps in memory. 

Meagan was there with us every step of the way and I would unreservedly recommend her services to anyone interested in hiring a doula. I don't really want to consider what my experience would have been like without her there. If I ever get pregnant again, I would run to the phone to hire her again. 

Emily LaDigue

4/9/2021

I couldn't be more grateful for Meagan during my labor - her calm, nonjudgmental, and confident demeanor was the exact presence I needed as a first-time mom. At our 2nd prenatal visit with Meagan, I expressed that I wanted a natural birth but was concerned I would immediately ask for an epidural if it was available. Meagan responded with such confidence in me that I started to have confidence in myself, too! That was something I didn't realize that I needed to hear, but made all the difference.

On my birthing day, labor started suddenly & progressed faster than I had anticipated. If it weren’t for Meagan, we would've had an accidental home birth because I didn't know what to expect and  I assumed I was still in early labor and had a long ways to go. Thankfully, Meagan showed up very quickly after we texted her and helped me get to the hospital just in time! 

While in the delivery room, I again began to doubt my ability to tolerate a natural birth (I still mistakenly thought I was hours away from birth!) and was able to tune into Meagan’s voice encouraging me and supporting me in maintaining my birth plan. It was exactly what I needed to hear to realize that I was in the home stretch. After delivery, our baby had to go to the nursery/NICU briefly and Meagan stayed with me every moment so that I could focus on my recovery and feel comforted while my husband went with baby. During this time, Meagan attended to my physical & emotional needs and continuously praised me for how strong I had been. I wish that everyone had a Meagan in their lives after birth telling them what a champion they are! Meagan’s support didn't stop at the delivery room. She has checked in with me regularly since baby’s birth and has offered ongoing support and resources. I would recommend Meagan one hundred times over. Her experience, positivity, and steadfastness would be invaluable to anyone considering doula services. 

Eric Lindsey

3/9/2021

From a birth partner's perspective, Meagan's presence was tremendously helpful and reassuring. 

I did my homework in terms of virtual classes and books and felt about as ready as a first-time father can feel -- but nothing can truly prepare you for that day(s) of labor. Everything you prepare for comes in handy for sure, but it was really comforting for me having someone by our side when all the doubts and questions and concerns I had that I thought I would be ready for started racing through my mind. I'm supposed to be the one lifting up my wife and supporting her and helping her through arguably the hardest thing she will ever go through, but it's really nice to have a backstop and someone lifting the partner up to make sure they're providing everything they can to the mama-to-be. 

Meagan was a swiss army knife for me. She was there to answer questions, give me confidence in moments of doubt, a source of strength for my wife from her prior experience, a sub when I needed a break, a liaison between us and the medical staff, and an extra set of eyes.

It's difficult for us to comprehend how we could have gotten through the day without her. We will definitely hire her again for any future babies. 

Stephanie Lindsey

3/9/2021

Throughout the first two trimesters of my pregnancy, I was very focused on my health and my baby’s health, but I gave very little thought to the actual birthing process. I assumed I would just show up at the hospital when I was in labor, get an epidural, and pop out a baby. Then, a couple months before my baby was due, I spoke to some friends who had non-medicated births attended by a doula, and it made me start thinking about what my delivery could look like.

I did some research into doulas and unmedicated births, and I came to the conclusion that I wanted both. After asking around, I found my way to Meagan (she was recommended by my provider) and decided to give this whole doula thing a try.

Before birth Meagan met with my husband and me to go through my birth plan and discuss how best she could support me through labor. She provided us with resources about different options for birth and medical decision-making both leading up to and during labor. She was also available 24/7 if I had questions. I checked in with her after all my OB/midwife appointments and she helped me make some very tough decisions. The information she provided my husband helped him be a more active participant in my pregnancy and an amazing birth partner.

In the hospital Meagan advocated for us with the nursing staff so my husband and I could focus on my comfort. She guided me through different positions to help get my baby to drop and engage, to speed up labor when it felt like things might be stalling, and for pushing. She also assisted us in making important medical decisions throughout my labor. 

Meagan was a calm and encouraging presence throughout my pregnancy, labor, and delivery, and she gave me the confidence I needed to have an unmedicated birth with Pitocin--which I honestly did not think was possible. My birth experience was incredibly positive and empowering, and I would highly recommend Meagan to everyone!

Hailee

2/19/2021

How can I even put into words how amazing Meagan is? As a birthworker myself, I've witnessed Meagan support clients for hours and hours without letting it affect the quality of her work. She understands that birth is unpredictable and is with you for the long haul. Meagan UNDERSTANDS birth. Having her in my own birth space was such a comfort to me. I believe that her unwavering and loving support was a huge contributor to my getting my VBAC. During our prenatal appointments she helped me consider things I would never have thought of so I would be as prepared for my birth as possible. She wasn't afraid to talk about uncomfortable things and supported my decisions, no matter what. I knew she had my back. Meagan is worth her weight in gold and MORE! If you're fortunate enough to have her on your birth team, you will NOT regret it. <3

Haley Smith

12/24/2020

I did not have the pregnancy or birth I imagined I would. In fact, it was about the furthest from anything I imagined. I thought I would have a natural home birth after a low risk pregnancy, and instead I had a very high risk pregnancy that ended in a hospital induction with an epidural. Having Meagan by my side made all of that not just okay, but a birth experience I couldn’t have been happier about. I tell everyone my birth went perfectly, and I really feel like I owe that all to Meagan. 

My pregnancy was incredibly stressful. Literally every single prenatal appointment ended in some kind of escalation in care. The stress of the first couple escalations solidified for me that I needed a doula, and I knew Meagan was the right choice immediately after meeting her. I called her every time someone escalated my care, and she was there to hear me. She told me every time, without fail, “I have your back.” It was only because of Meagan that I felt like I could walk into the hospital and deliver my baby safely. 

My biggest fear about birth was that I would be forced into interventions without my consent. I agonized over this for months, but the second Meagan showed up to my induction, I completely relaxed. I didn’t have to think about that. She had my back. My only job was to birth this baby. I ended up opting for an epidural, and Meagan fully supported my choice. I never felt shame in that decision, and I feel I can also thank her for that. In the end, I welcomed my son into a quiet, peaceful, and gently lit hospital room (courtesy of Meagan’s fairy lights). It was truly perfect. 

Thank you, Meagan, for having my back and helping me welcome my son in the best way for me.

Maddie Shepard

11/11/2020

Meagan was professional, knowledgeable, available whenever we needed her, and empathetic.  
Meagan met with us several times (safely - following all Covid guidelines to limit spread and exposure of Covid 19) to offer information, resources, and advice.  Meagan also made herself available to us whenever we needed her . I found myself very thankful to have someone so knowledgeable that I could reach out to at any time with questions.  She definitely was able to answer questions and put my mind at ease.  Meagan approached the experience with unmatched empathy.  She empowered my husband and I to make informed decisions.

Our labor and birth experience was atypical and very long.  Meagan was there every step of the way and was a support to both myself and my husband.  She was an extra ear in the room, helped keep nurses informed during shift changes, offered comfort measures and encouragement to me, and made our experience all the better.  If I were to have another pregnancy, I would 100% employ Meagan's services again, and would highly recommend her to friends and family.

Jessica M.

6/24/2020

When we asked Meagan to be our Doula, the plan was to have an unmedicated birth at the hospital. Knowing myself and husband, along with the fact this was our first child, I wanted to have someone that understood my wants for this birth and could help us navigate and stay true to our desires during labor and birth. We truly felt Meagan could help us do just that. She offered such a calm, confident and family centered presence that we loved!

Unfortunately, our baby girl decided to flip late in my pregnancy and remained breech. Meagan guided us in reevaluating and recreating our birth plan and was able to provide us with so much valuable information and discussion related to versions, breech birth, and c-sections so that we could make a well informed decision that best suited our personalities and new needs. Meagan was also an invaluable emotional support person that I could discuss the feelings these new changes and interventions were bringing on and how to work through them. 

After a failed attempt at a version, we ended up scheduling a c-section. Luckily, Meagan was still able to attend our birth and take pictures for us during the cesarean. She captured moments I wasn’t able to be fully present for and provided comfort and support not just for me through the nervousness of a major surgery and becoming a new mother, but for my husband throughout the day. Especially when I was in recovery and he was alone with our new daughter as a first time father. She did an amazing job and we’re thankful she was by our side. And I can confidently say, as a year has passed since our birth experience, Meagan stays true to her sincere declaration of “Doula for life” and we love her for that! She’s been such a sweet presence over the past year. So with all of this, even knowing that our daughter’s birth would end in cesarean, we would undoubtedly make the decision to have her as our Doula all over again. 

Rachel Gaines

5/29/2020

I gave birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. To say that there were a lot of unknowns in the later part of my pregnancy is a massive understatement. Despite all of that, the best summary of Meagan was that she EMPOWERED me (and my husband!) through my entire pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
From our first meeting, she took the time to get to know us, not just our thoughts and preferences on birth, but who we are. She was always encouraging me to do what was best for me and my baby, and she provided information and resources so I could decide what that was and feel good about it. Meagan answered my questions with evidence-based information but she also provided suggestions of questions I could ask my OB to get what I needed. As my pregnancy neared it’s end, she offered both encouragement that my baby would get here and practical things I could do in order to gently encourage my body and baby.
During labor, she helped me try a variety of pain relief techniques because foregoing pain medicine of any kind was very important to me. If something didn’t work, Meagan gave suggestions for what I could try, giving me the space to think and experiment to find what worked. She offered relief to me and to my husband, gently stepping in and back as the situation warranted. Meagan’s calming presence and soft encouragement were always there, never overpowering, but motivating me.
I don’t think I could have been happier with my son’s birth experience, and Meagan’s support during my pregnancy and labor was a huge part of that. If I had to do this pregnancy all over again, knowing what I know now and with all of the craziness of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no doubt I would hire Meagan again.

Emily G.

5/5/2020

When I was pregnant, I had two big fears about giving birth. First, I was afraid of being left alone while in labor and second, I was worried that having never been a part of a birth (either as a support person or the birthing person) I would have no idea what was normal and what was not. Given these fears, I knew I wanted a doula with me when I delivered. What made Meagan the right doula, however, was that she not only listened to those fears, but she made it clear from the get go that her focus during the birthing process was to help me get through it, even in the event that things went off track, which ultimately did happen to some degree.

Still, a year later, I can look back on that experience positively. Meagan was available for me in the days (yes, days) of early labor, offering me encouragement while things were slowly moving along. When I moved into the active phase of labor, she came to our house and timed my contractions and held my hand while I sat in the tub. She came with us to the hospital and helped us get settled in, since it was clearly still going to be a while. She was supportive of my choices for a medicated birth and she truly did make room for my partner and family to be involved in the best ways.

What also makes Meagan an amazing doula is that she cares about her clients after the birth, as well as during pregnancy. She brought us take out-during a postpartum visit, offered support as we struggled with some of the challenges of breastfeeding, and has even given us some advice when parenting presented us with unforeseen challenges. I am so grateful that Meagan helped us get started on this journey on the right foot. 

Megan P.

3/21/2020

Meagan was an integral part in making the birth of our son truly healing and beautiful. Coming to this birth with painful memories of prior pregnancy losses, Meagan approached these tender places in our family life with great love, understanding, and compassion. I asked her to help us have a memory of this birth that was beautiful, and she did just that. Before birth, she kept in touch regularly to encourage and help talk me through pre-labor anxieties. She made our room dim, quiet, and full of twinkle lights, offered tremendous physical support, and was unbelievably patient through a 44-hour labor. Even though she would have been well within her rights per our contract to have called for a backup doula after many hours at the hospital, she slept two nights there with us—we couldn’t believe how faithful and heroically patient she was! She brought a reverence for the process of birth into our space that helped me to receive everything that it entailed (pain, many changed plans, little progress, an unanticipated epidural) with acceptance and love, in a way that was truly healing, both in those moments and as I processed them in the months that followed. She has a great quiet love for persons giving birth and we were so grateful to draw strength from that! She has our infinite thanks.

Annie

3/17/2020

When we found out we were pregnant with our first child we quickly decided that we wanted to create a support network to help ensure a positive birth experience. We were aware of the evidence around the impact a Doula can have on an unmedicated birth experience like we desired, and as first-time parents felt strongly about having someone on our birth team who could help us ask questions and navigate the many decisions we’d be making.

When we first met with Meagan to discuss our needs and desires for our birth experience we were instantly at ease. Meagan's calm and warm demeanor, expertise, and experience were all evident and made it clear that she would be a great team member to balance our needs as we navigated this new adventure.

Leading up to the birth, Meagan helped us to explore many significant questions we hadn’t considered as we developed our birth plan and supported us as a couple in discussing our preferences and expectations. These conversations, in addition to a variety of resources she provided, helped us to feel prepared and confident as our due date approached – a true gift for first-time parents.

Our labor ended up being much faster than anticipated – and while we didn’t have the time to implement many of the elements in our birth plan – our daughter arrived quickly (only 4 hrs) after my water broke unexpectedly – Meagan was with us to navigate the unexpected turns and keep us focused on the components we could control. Having spent time with us ahead of the birth Meagan was able to help us to stay calm and relaxed – and her presence truly contributed to helping us have a birth experience that we were both beyond happy with.

We will without a doubt choose Meagan as our Doula for any future pregnancies/deliveries – and are truly grateful for her support in ensuring our birth experience was full of happy memories as we welcomed our first child into our family!

Hannah

1/30/2020

Meagan came to us highly recommended by our childbirth educator, and she was an invaluable part of our birth team. We appreciated the wisdom she shared at our prenatal visit, as she had attended many labors at our hospital.  She knew all of the nurses, the ins and outs of what to expect, and what choices we would have at different points throughout the labor.  This helped us feel well prepared and ready to advocate for our ideal birth experience.

During my labor, Meagan intuitively knew just what to do at each moment to help me feel more comfortable.  She knew where to find the birth balls in the labor and delivery unit, she asked the nurses to bring me a fan when she noticed I was sweating, and she knew exactly how to apply counterpressure to help with difficult contractions leading up to (and during) transition.  She brought strands of white Christmas lights that she placed around the room to help it feel cozy (and I found these to be a great thing to focus on during the pushing phase of labor).  She took great pictures, and she even wore a shirt that said "it's a beautiful day for a birth."

Things did not go as planned during the later stages of my labor, but Meagan was a calming and steady presence who helped explain the different options and support the decisions that we made as my labor became increasingly more complex.  She used empowering language that helped me view the experience as positive rather than traumatizing, not only during the labor but afterwards as I recovered from an emergency c-section.  During the c-section, she waited with my mom until I was out of the post-op recovery unit and into my hospital room, which gave me great peace of mind (knowing that my mom had company and reassurance, and seeing Meagan after my c-section was over).  Meagan helped me feel strong and brave throughout my labor, and her postnatal visit to our home was a wonderful way to celebrate baby's arrival.

Mary

1/26/2020

My decision to hire a doula was based in both fact and feeling: I knew the evidence on the impact doulas can have on the birth experience, especially the unmedicated one I desired. I also knew in my gut that, as first time parents, we'd benefit from a doula's personalized support.  

So, it was perfect that Meagan's approach to supporting families is rooted in fact and feeling. Throughout my pregnancy, she was always available with evidence-based responses to our many questions accompanied by a comforting word. She incorporates data, technology, and training with instinct and intuition. 

Once you meet Meagan, you quickly feel like you've known her a long time. She puts you at ease and brings a calm, confident energy to a stress-filled experience. We relied on her to help us understand what is normal in pregnancy and birth, to prepare birth wishes, and to ask good questions of my physicians. And the fact that Meagan has positive and ongoing relationships with her clients' doctors, midwives, and nurses speaks volumes. 

During labor itself, Meagan answered my questions and offered advice as labor progressed. She also frequently anticipated my needs. When my focus turned inward or I couldn't muster the words to make a request, Meagan would quietly step in with a hip squeeze or to offer a sip of water at just the right time. 

Of all the advice and encouragement Meagan offered throughout our partnership, the most profound thing she said to me came after our daughter was born - she said that she considers herself my "doula for life." Those simple words meant so much as they welcomed me into this new sisterhood of motherhood. I'm grateful that Meagan remains in both my network of support as a new parent and in the happy memories of the day our lives changed forever. 

Lisa

9/21/2019

My husband and I agree that hiring Meagan was one of the best decisions we made for the delivery of our daughter. During the third trimester, Meagan helped us craft a birth plan that we could give to our midwives and showed us exercises that we could do at home for pain relief over the last few weeks.

My labor ended up being very long, and Meagan was there with us for the 32 hours we were at the hospital. I don’t remember her leaving my side, and she was such a comfort to have with us. She and my husband were able to tag team supporting me through two days and a night. I credit her support and pain relief techniques for helping me achieve the natural childbirth I wanted, even after the midwives introduced Pitocin. She was an incredibly supportive and reassuring presence during the entire labor and delivery, and my husband and I have no idea how we would have gotten through it without her. I think my birth story would have been very different if she hadn’t been involved.

Meagan came to our house a week later to follow up and go over any questions I had about the delivery, which I appreciated. She’s also kept in contact in the months since, asking how we are doing and checking in on our baby girl. We value her so much, and I would absolutely hire her again for any subsequent deliveries. You would never regret having Meagan a part of your birth team!

Amelia Prevost

9/16/2019

We faced complications in my last trimester of pregnancy. I relied heavily on Meagan's consistent encouragement and support throughout those last several weeks. She was amazing. She provided me with information whenever I had questions about decisions along the way. As a first time mom, Meagan's knowledge was priceless. At our birth, Meagan's calming presence added to the extremely positive experience I had. With every contraction she provided the touch necessary to make it one step closer to meeting our son. My husband and I know that without Meagan's services, we would not have had such an amazing birth experience. We will definitely be hiring Meagan for any future births. She's the best!

Christa Carpenter

4/4/2019

Before the birth, Meagan met two times with my husband and me. During those meetings, she asked about my birth preferences, answered my questions, and helped calm my fears about birth. In the time leading up to my delivery date, she was available by phone and email to answer any questions and to address any concerns that I had. Any time that I contacted her, she responded quickly. When I went into labor at 4 a.m., she answered my call right away and headed to the hospital. She arrived there just after we did and immediately started working on creating a calm environment for me and helping me through contractions. She recommended laboring positions, helped my husband assist me, and kept my family up to date when my husband was unable to do so. When a coping strategy, like massage, was not working for me, she paid attention to my cues and tried something different, like constant pressure or light touch. She also offered to take pictures of the birth and captured the moment that my daughter was born. After the birth, she stayed with me for two hours until I was ready to be moved to another room. My husband went to be with our daughter in the nursery and NICU, so having Meagan with me was comforting. Throughout my stay at the hospital and in the following weeks, she continued to follow up with me, making sure we were all doing well.  During our postpartum visit, we discussed how I felt about the birth and answered our questions. I highly recommend Meagan to anyone who's interested in using a doula. As a first-time mom who wanted an unmedicated birth, I knew that I'd need extra help in accomplishing my goal. Meagan helped me do just that, and I'm forever thankful. 

Jennifer

3/16/2019

Meagan is an amazing doula. From our very first meeting, I was impressed with her professionalism. She was prompt, listened to our concerns and provided guidance. I never felt pushed by her to make decisions. During our consultations, she helped facilitate intimate conversations between my husband and I that helped to shape our birth plan. Unfortunately, due to birth complications, I had to have a c-section and couldn’t labor at home. Meagan was there for the c-section and provided support. She helped us ask critical questions to the hospital staff. It was extremely helpful having someone to bounce ideas and discuss alternatives with. Once you’re in the hospital, it’s game on. They want to get that baby out, so they don’t necessarily consider your wishes. Meagan was there to help us advocate for ourselves. She never clocked us for time. A lot of other doulas have a time limit, and that can be super stressful when you’re in labor. You need support. You don’t need to be thinking of when the appropriate time would be to contact your doula. Then, after the birth, she continuously checked in with us and provided lactation support. She truly is a doula for life and I felt very much supported and cared for during my pregnancy, labor and post partum. 

Stephanie Bleuel

2/5/2019

Words cannot express how thankful I am to have had Meagan as my doula. This was my first pregnancy, I was anxious and didn't know what to expect but Meagan helped me prepare for childbirth by sharing her knowledge and resources.

I cannot imagine my labor and delivery without her support. Doulas are not only for those who do not have a large support team. I was fortunate enough to have my husband, mother, and 2 sisters present for my labor and delivery - but I could not have reached my goal of an all-natural birth without Meagan. Meagan gave me the support and confidence I needed to have an unmedicated birth. She massaged my legs, made sure I stayed cool and hydrated, applied counter-pressure through contractions, and constantly reminded me of how I strong I am. She kept me calm during the most intense day of my life and her presence was beyond comforting.

The support that Meagan provides throughout the entire process from pregnancy to postpartum is invaluable. During my pregnancy she would frequently touch base, check on me after doctor appointments, and send me information on things she knew I'd be interested in such as prenatal yoga. She was always available to answer questions or address any concerns I had. When the day came, she labored with me at home until it was time to go to the hospital. I am now several months postpartum and she still checks in on us from time to time to make sure we are doing okay. It is obvious Meagan truly cares for her families as I never felt like just another client or only a number. She took the time to truly get to know me and my husband and how she could be support us every step of the way. I will without a doubt choose Meagan as my doula for any and all future pregnancies/deliveries. Meagan is our doula for life!

Lexi Abner Carlson

1/9/2019

Meagan was such a huge support for us during the whole process of planning for and recovering from the birth of our baby boy. Both mine and my husband’s family live out of town, and so it was very comforting knowing we had someone local supporting us. She has so much great knowledge and information, and is a patient, calm presence. We had originally planned for an unmedicated hospital birth. However, after some gestational hypertension and nonreassuring heart tones our birth plan changed to an induction and eventually an emergency cesarean. Meagan was there with us every step of the way. When our baby needed additional care and had to be separated from me, Meagan stayed with me in recovery so that I wouldn’t be alone while my husband went with our son. She even checked on us several times after we were home from the hospital. Though we didn’t quite get the birth experience that we had hoped for, Meagan helped us through a very difficult, scary time. I would highly recommend her no matter what kind of birth you’re planning for.

Lexi Abner Carlson

1/9/2019

Meagan was such a huge support for us during the whole process of planning for and recovering from the birth of our baby boy. Both mine and my husband’s family live out of town, and so it was very comforting knowing we had someone local supporting us. She has so much great knowledge and information, and is a patient, calm presence. We had originally planned for an unmedicated hospital birth. However, after some gestational hypertension and nonreassuring heart tones our birth plan changed to an induction and eventually an emergency cesarean. Meagan was there with us every step of the way. When our baby needed additional care and had to be separated from me, Meagan stayed with me in recovery so that I wouldn’t be alone while my husband went with our son. She even checked on us several times after we were home from the hospital. Though we didn’t quite get the birth experience that we had hoped for, Meagan helped us through a very difficult, scary time. I would highly recommend her no matter what kind of birth you’re planning for.

Jennifer Williams

12/6/2018

We hired Meagan for the birth of our second daughter.  She was patient with my frequent texts near the end of the pregnancy about changes in how I was feeling and questions about labor.  She came to our home when I went into labor in earnest and helped through the aggressive contractions I had at home before heading to the hospital - I don't think I could've stayed home as long as I did without her.  She was very in tune with my progress - and prompted us to go to the hospital at the right point by asking if we wanted to head that way.  At the hospital, the midwives and UK nurses knew and appreciated her, which meant she was allowed to come into triage with me.  We ended up in triage longer than expected, and she got me onto a ball and helped with counterpressure on my back during contractions.  Her encouragement and physical support are one of the main things that made my natural delivery possible.  I'd recommend Meagan to anyone who wants a doula with quiet confidence.

Chris Muth

8/22/2018

When my wife first said, “We should get a doula”, I had to google “Doula” because I had no idea what she was talking about. After studying up on the profession, and knowing my wife wanted to have an all natural birth, I agreed to begin interviewing doulas with her. Needless to say we only interviewed one doula, Meagan, and knew there wasn’t a need to look any further. My wife and I were both nervous going into the interview, but after leaving we felt a calming peace and confidence in having a doula present for the upcoming greatest day of our lives. Meagan’s knowledge, experience, and peaceful and relaxing disposition cemented her as our doula.
After making our choice, Meagan met with us in our home twice . During Meagan’s visits she greatly helped my wife in clarifying the birth plan. She asked many questions which brought to light ideas and situations that we might encounter and details of which we were unaware. Her knowledge throughout the entire process was an irreplaceable resource to have.
Day of Meagan was nothing short of a super hero! My wife’s birth plan was to go all natural and medication free, and Meagan had all the knowledge, techniques, and supplies necessary. From her relaxing massages and oils, to the constant application of counter pressure to ease discomfort, Meagan was a rockstar. Without her help I can’t be positive that my wife would have been able to achieve her goal, as her labor was extremely intense and unusual. Meagan was like family being in the room with us, doula for life!

Autumn Marie Pagano

8/21/2018

Everyone told me “Oh, you dont need a doula” and I’m so glad I didn’t listen to them!! Megan was an amazing comfort to have building up to labor and delivery, and absolutely INDISPENSABLE on the big day! We had a very tricky delivery in store for us with my little girl being Frank breech; my doctor wanted me to be up and moving around for most the labor to get baby in the right position, which meant no epidural. Megan was EXCELLENT support for me and my husband!! She had a wonderful comprehension of what I needed every step of the way, whether it was words of wisdom on how to breath and focus or her utilization of natural physical methods to help ground me during my contractions. I know that I wouldn’t have had the same beautiful birth experience without Megan by our side. She was there every step of the way, through the moments of doubt and relief, and we’re so grateful to have had her as a partner in welcoming our daughter earth side.

Brittany Durham

8/17/2018

Our experience with Meagan was amazing. I highly recommend choosing her as your doula!! From the moment we interviewed her, I knew I could be comfortable around her. She was available for questions any time, and always followed up if she hadn't heard back from me. She was an amazing pregnancy support, answering questions and providing resources, always giving me the information but never pushing for one choice over another. When my husband couldn't make it to an important appointment, Meagan cleared her schedule and came with me. At every opportunity to support, Meagan was there. When it came time for our daughter's birth, Meagan stayed with us from 5 am until 1 am the next day. When presented with so many birthing options, Meagan talked them through with us, suggested/helped me get into different positions, kept me hydrated, and supported our birth preferences. I would not have been able to stick with my birthing choices if Meagan hadn't been there to cheer me on. I remember at the hardest point in labor I said "I can't do this anymore." And Meagan responded without hesitation, "You can do this-you are doing it!!" Her confidence in me gave me a second wind, and our sweet baby girl was born shortly after. I am so grateful for Meagan. She is my doula for life!!

Eli Riveire Warner

7/26/2018

I am SO GLAD we used a doula this time (for our second birth) and I am SO GLAD we chose Meagan! It was so helpful to have a knowledgeable and supportive person not only in the room with us for our delivery, but also during the entire pregnancy and postpartum period. Meagan was a calm and collected presence that helped to keep us grounded and focused. More than just a doula, Meagan became a friend. I would use her again in a heartbeat!

Victoria Wilson

5/19/2018

Meagan attended our birth as a backup doula for our primary doula. We were so impressed with how Meagan jumped right in and didn't miss a beat! She came ready with tons of tools and ideas to help the labor progress well. Though this was my third birth, it was also my hardest! Meagan really kept me calm and collected in the most intense part of labor and for that I'm forever grateful. She loved and served our new family well. My husband loves having a doula and Meagan certainly eased the stress of birth for him. Thank you for everything, Meagan!

Iulia Sprinceana

4/14/2018

My husband and I chose Meagan after learning about her from a close friend's birth experience. She came highly recommended and we couldn't be happier with her. Meagan is a warm, gentle soul who has the patience to listen and the wisdom to guide her questions in such a way as to receive more information about the mom, her partner and their preferences. Even if we have met with Meagan a few times, she really felt like being part of the family right away. She inspired me the trust to ask any question, no matter how personal or silly. Needless to say, she is punctual, maintains good communication and is extremely reliable. She assisted me during the birth of my son and her presence was that extra touch of comfort and support that I needed at the time. I would certainly have Meagan assist me again if I have another child, and I would also recommend her enthusiastically.

Michael G

2/26/2018

At first I was skeptical about hiring a doula, I always have the "I got this" attitude. But our first child's birth experience left us feeling as though we could have done more to make this major life event more meaningful and go more smoothly.

After receiving solid recommendations and hearing some great stories from friends who had worked with a doula we decided to meet with Meagan. From the beginning she put us at ease, she has a very peaceful personality. She interviewed us to understand our priorities as well as our personalities and worked with us to develop a birth plan.

During labor Meagan was a rockstar! Always helping my wife relax, suggesting good positions, encouraging her though contractions, and coaching her with breathing techniques. She even took a few photos for us and met with us after we came home. She did an outstanding job, I wish we would have had her help us with our first child...

Thank you Meagan!!!

Chantell Smith Limerick

1/30/2018

When my husband and I had our initial meeting with Meagan, I knew immediately that she was the doula I was looking for. Her calm, open demeanor made us feel at ease. Meagan’s commitment to serving all people, regardless of race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation and gender expression was particularly welcoming to me as a woman of color in an interracial relationship.

When the big day came, Meagan met us at our home and accompanied us to the hospital. She was sensitive to having my preferences in the birth plan respected by the hospital staff and wanted to ensure that was I comfortable; for example, instead of having to get into the bed while being temporarily hooked up to the fetal monitor, Meagan asked the nurse if I could remain on the birthing ball, which I was allowed to do. She suggested that my husband and I create a playlist of relaxing music, and she brought twinkle lights to create a calming atmosphere and used aromatherapy massage oil on me for a soothing touch. Every time I had a contraction, she pushed my hips together, which enormously helped to manage the pain and instructed me to vocalize with a low hum, which prevented me from tensing up. She made sure I was hydrated by constantly bringing me water between contractions. These are just a few examples of small things Meagan performed or instructed which made a big difference.

In the end, I feel that Meagan went above and beyond. When the time came to push, she took some amazing pictures with my husband’s phone. She captured moments that we will always look back on and treasure. The doctor who delivered our son later told me that Meagan was the best doula she had ever worked with.

I had a goal of having a low-intervention, non-medicated birth, and Meagan was integral to that goal being met.

Megan R. Cleinmark

12/13/2017

My husband and I had planned a homebirth for the birth of our first child. Our midwife required that we hire a doula since this was our first birth. We were both hesitant to this due to the added cost and that we were using the Bradley Method of Husband Coached Childbirth. Since my husband was going to be my coach, we did not want a doula to interfere with our practiced method. We could not have been more wrong!! Meagan ended up being the most amazing and supportave person at our birth and I can honestly say I do not think we could have done it without her. My labor ended up lasting 43 hours (30 hours of active labor). My baby was posterior so I had the most terrible back labor imaginable. Meagan was instrumental in calming and supporting not just me but my husband too. She stayed with us the entire time, using endless methods to try to flip the baby, massaging me, placing a heating pad on my back, and making sure both my husband and I were hydrated and nourished. If she had not been there, our succesful homebirth may easily have turned into a hospital c-section. I cannot recommend Meagan highly enough. Not only is she amazing at what she does, but she's an amazing person too.

Eliza Jane

12/2/2017

Meagan made my dream birth come true! I relied on her calm reassuring energy so much. Her support and confidence in me made a huge difference. My water broke at 3 am and she came to our home as quickly as she could. She helped coach me through breathing, comforted me, and gave me massage on my lower back to relieve the pressure. She reminded me of some laboring positions like leaning over my birthing ball on the bed that helped me cope. It was nice to have her tell us it was time to go to the hospital because she could see that | was progressing so quickly. She followed us to the hospital and supported me through contractions as we made our way to the delivery room. She advocated for my wishes when we were in the hospital by reminding my husband to have the IV turned into a saline lock, reminding the nurses that I did not want to labor on my back and to get me off my back as soon as possible, and requesting a birthing ball and making sure it was the right size. She dimmed the lights, layed out strands of twinkle lights, began filling up the birthing tub, and made sure my calming music was playing. The environment was so peaceful we think my baby came out sleeping! My labor progressed very fast so I really relied on her to coach me through moaning and breathing when I was in transition. There were so many things that Meagan did that I didn’t even see because I was in labor land and closed my eyes during a lot of my labor. But I know she was always focusing 100% of her energy on making me as comfortable and effective as possible in my labor. Meagan was kind enough to take photos and video of the birth on my camera, too, even though thats not her primary role and we treasure those photos! We would feel very blessed to have Meagan at future births and owe so much to her for helping me have an incredibly positive and transformative birth experience.

Rachael Dupree

11/5/2017

When we began discussing having a doula for our home birth, I imagined that person keeping my husband calm and focused, but in reality, Meagan ended up being my rock.

My labor progressed very quickly, and Meagan, her instincts telling her my time was near, was ready when we called. She immediately went to work, massaging my back, feet and legs and applying counterpressure during contractions. My midwife had not arrived when I was ready to birth my baby, and she noticed the cues and immediately got the midwife on the phone, who gave her instructions on how to stall my labor. The wait was painful, but Meagan stood by my side.

She continued offering calm support when the midwife arrived and it was time to push the baby out. My daughter was born not breathing. As the midwife worked to resuscitate the baby, Meagan called 911, and then she stayed to care for me as the midwife and EMTs helped my daughter.

At the hospital, Meagan was my comfort when my husband accompanied our daughter to the NICU. She brushed my wet, messy hair; helped clean the blood off my body; and found me food to eat. That night, when my husband returned home to gather our things, she slept on a crummy hospital couch beside me so I wouldn't be alone. She continued to check in on us throughout the duration of our hospital stay and when we were finally able to take our baby home.

We've been impressed not only with Meagan's professionalism, but her quiet, calm steadfastness and her willingness to go above and beyond. At my most vulnerable, she offered me the kindest, most precious gift of her compassion and unfailing care. She provided us the support we needed at times we didn't even know to ask. We took a leap of faith asking Meagan, a new doula, to attend the home birth of our first child, but in the end, we would not have made any other choice. We not only found ourselves a doula, but through the trauma of an unpredicatble birth, we found a friend.

Sean Kelsey

10/23/2017

Meagan was absolutely incredible. I was very unsure about haveing a doula hat the begin of the pregnancy. Meagan was such an assets to our baby‘s Birth! She 100 percent enhanced labor and delivery of our first child. Meagan not only helped my wife out she was a calming presence to me as well. She showed me several techniques to help my wife! So thankful for hiring our doulah! I would recommend Meagan to anyone who is even thinking about having a doulah and will try to hire her again if at all a possible if we decide to have another child.