Morgen

1/31/2023

I decided to invest in a doula after several friends encouraged me that having a doula was the most important investment in their own births. Having Emily through my pregnancy and birth was transformative; I experienced so much growth in my last trimester in advocating for and trusting myself. Having Emily as a resource that I could call before, during, and after doctors appointments made me feel like my birth experience was one in which I had power and agency as my circumstances changed. Emily reminded me that I could always choose to take time to research, think, and ask questions of my providers at every step along the way. My birth ultimately changed from the wishes I had in pregnancy, and Emily provided such a grounding presence, making herself available to me whenever I needed her for assurance, resources and hope. When it came to birth, I was so afraid when I realized my wishes for the birth I'd envisioned would not be the reality, but Emily stood by me, going way beyond the call of duty to provide support to my partner and me as we made some difficult decisions that were safest for our baby. Through all of pregnancy and birth, Emily directed me back to consider what was best for me, and to allow those plans to change by tuning into my body and baby. Her support was absolutely crucial to my partner and me as we were exhausted by labor and had to make some difficult decisions. One moment from my birth experience that I'll never forget was Emily giving me a hug and encouraging me to listen to my body and make the decision that I knew was right. In the end, I had an unplanned c-section, which was certainly far from my original birth wishes, but because of Emily's support I went into the operation knowing I was doing the right thing for myself and my baby. I am so thankful for emotional and practical support through my experience, and that she was even available to help me process the experience and provide ongoing support after birth. 

Maggie Perry

1/22/2023

I am so grateful that Emily was part of my homebirth team as my doula. Her presence made me feel safe and supported as I surrendered to labor. She held space for me, encouraged me, and reminded me to soften in moments I was tensing up my body. Emily was a huge support not only during birth, but also in the months leading up to birth as she helped me to process previous trauma and fears. I highly recommend adding Emily to your birth team as your doula! Her range of knowledge and skills are the perfect combination to assist you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as you embark on the incredible journey of childbirth!