Marissa

9/30/2022

Tahira has such a grounded, calming presence which we knew we’d need for this vulnerable time as first time parents, as well as an assertive confidence that assured us she’d advocate for us in the hospital. At every prenatal and postpartum visit she went above and beyond, addressing our concerns and questions with a wealth of knowledge, encouragement and support, never seeming rushed or distracted. She became like a therapist for my husband and I, allowing us to express our fears without judgment and assuring us that we’d be okay. She made me herbal teas, tinctures, scar healing ointment and the best postpartum soup! I believe her placenta encapsulation aided in my recovery. Tahira was always quick to respond to questions about pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, newborn care and postpartum and consistently provided comprehensive tips and resources. Our birth experience was a week-long hospital marathon that started with a gentle induction (which Tahira helped me advocate for, instead of a rushed water-breaking) and ended in a c-section. Toughest week of my life and Tahira was there at every up and down helping us navigate the entire process. She made us feel heard and empowered even when labor wasn’t going as smoothly as we’d hoped. She interfaced with all of the doctors and nurses, advocating for our birth wishes, clearing out any negative energy, and helping us make informed choices about moving forward in many confusing, difficult moments. Our baby was brought into this world with calmness, strength and love, and so much of that has to do with Tahira’s guidance and presence. Our roles as married partners and parents have been strengthened by her wisdom and offerings. You can tell she loves being a birth worker and was destined to do this unpredictable, demanding work. We are eternally grateful for all of the genuine kindness, care and compassion she poured into our family. We cannot recommend her enough!

Ye Dam A

8/8/2022

When my husband and I were interviewing doulas, two things about Tahira really stood out to us.  (1) She was a self-professed "birth nerd" who constantly sought new research, and (2) even in that first interview, she made an effort to get to know us.  I can take some time to open up to new people, so I really needed Tahira to do the relationship-building, and she did that really well, encouraging me open up and talk through my hopes and fears.  She provided guidance that spanned the spectrum from strictly ACOG-approved to more traditional/alternative practices, and we felt free to take what made sense for us.  We went into the birth trusting that she understood our values and wishes.

I had an unexpectedly rapid labor, so that by the time we called Tahira and she arrived, I was already 8 cm. It was still invaluable to have her encouragement and guidance, and her essential oils - her peppermint really did help me calm and focus even in active labor!  She also was incredible at advocating for us to the hospital staff - I remember her calmly but firmly (and repeatedly) reminding them of our birth wishes, and when there was some irregularity, she discussed with the doctor and helped explain to me what was going on.  She also got some pictures of the moments after birth that I will cherish.

Finally, Tahira came over a few days postpartum, and for me, this was actually when I needed her most.  Although I had supportive family with me, she was able to talk me through my hormonal haze and helping my family figure out how to support me best.  It was just supposed to be a "check in" but when she saw I was having a hard time, she stayed almost two hours to make sure that I was OK.  This was just the final example of the way Tahira was pro-active in finding ways to support us in the ways we needed, even if we couldn't articulate it ourselves, and I feel so grateful that she was part of our journey. 

Chanta Gordh

5/5/2022

I had a wonderful experience with Tahira! Starting with our intro call, she was very warm and knowledgeable, so I decided to go with her (after interviewing a few candidates) booking her for overnight infant care because of her experience and she seemed very  flexible, given I wasn't entirely sure of what I needed at the time - I just knew I needed help. While working with her, she was very reliable, offered plenty of helpful advice/tips, cooked yummy meals while I was sleeping and most importantly, had such a gentle touch with my baby girl. I felt very assured with my newborn in Tahira's care. Overall, I would recommend her if you're looking for both infant care and expertise on postpartum recovery.

Zoe

5/1/2022

 I write this with my little girl sleeping on my chest, emotional about what an amazing experience we had despite it being so far from what I had envisioned for myself. This is because we had the best doula ever. Instead of the natural childbirth at a birth center that I had planned, I was induced at the hospital at 39 weeks due to high blood pressure. With Tahira I was able to sustain a 3 day induction and labor without an epidural- and more importantly- I was able to leave my birth feeling empowered by the experience.
 
This is not only because of the emotional support but because of her extensive knowledge of herbal medicine / natural healing remedies and the medical system and hospital procedures. At several points leading up to the birth my partner and I joked that we had already gotten our moneys worth even if she didnt attend the birth (first when she cured my PUPPS with an herbal compress at 33 weeks, then when she educated on what specific induction methods and amenities to request at the hospital). Then the birth itself she was amazing. She was the bridge between me and the doctors, she helped me and my partner emotionally, physically, got my contractions consistent using herbal teas, helped with my nausea, my fears, and so much more. It would have been a completely different experience without her.
 
Without her I think I likely would have needed a c-section to get the baby out. I know that without her I would have felt a disconnection from the experience at the very least and disempowered by the changes  happening  that were out of my control. Also – I know that with her, if I had to have a c-section or epidural it would not have been that bad or disheartening. By the time I was ready to labor I already felt super prepared for and at peace with any outcome.
 
No matter what type of birth you envision for yourself I recommend Tahira !!