Dominique

7/9/2021

I want to start by saying I was pregnant during Covid, so that in itself was hard. There were so many limitations to who could be in hospital and how many people et cetera. I opted for a doula because this was my first child and with all the demands of Covid I needed someone that I know could help me overcome the stress of the unknown.  Jamilah was amazing! She had so much knowledge and was able to walk me through a birthing plan, that included things I would've never known to ask about or think of. Now the main reason having a doula was a dream is because I had preclampsia and delivered 4 weeks early and Jamilah was there every step of the way and made it less scary. She also made the delivery room a relaxing environment for myself and nurses as most walked into the room wondering what smelled so good! It was the essential oils, again something I wouldn't have thought about, but made all the difference. Having a doula was so special and I recommend Jamilah for anyone that is thinking about getting one. She's knowledge, she can be an advocate but allows you to think through what was previously discussed and she can help you breath through 19 hours of labor before an emergency c-section. Regardless, I highly recommend Jamilah! Again I could thank her enough. Thank you. 

Ellie

7/6/2019

Having Jamilah as my doula during my 30-hour labor was like having a light in the dark. I'm a first-time mother and had no idea what to expect as far as pain, pain management, duration, etc., and I went in expecting an epidural ASAP. Long story short, the multiple epidurals I had were either not completely effective, delayed, and wore off too quickly. There were moments when the pain was so extraordinary (again -- I was medicated --) that Jamilah's coaching, comfort, and breathing were the only things I could focus on to make it through each individual minute. 

Labor is a scary time for not only the mother, but her partner, as well. My husband, similarly, had an idea of what to expect. However, having Jamilah answer his questions, coaching him to help me, and being a friendly, calm presence during the down times helped him stay focused and positive throughout the long day/night. 

Jamilah is not only a knowledgeable doula, she is also a lactation consultant, and was immediately helpful during my first hour with my son. In addition, Jamilah is three times a mother, so she not only understands the labor process, but also pain management from a personal perspective. She constantly helped keep my focus on the miracle I was going to deliver.

She also brought a number of things we didn't think to bring (flameless candles, aromatherapy diffuser, massage, speaker, peanut ball), all of which proved useful and calming during the process. However, all of these things are just small details when I look back on the whole day. Jamilah's beautiful presence and nurturing spirit are really what got me through it, and my husband and I are truly grateful she was there to help me.