Jennie Figueroa Yanes

10/12/2026

Having Esther as my doula during my third, and possibly last, pregnancy was one of the best decisions I made. Although I discovered doulas during my third trimester and connected with Esther only about a month and a half before my due date, she made every moment count.

My dream was to deliver naturally, or as naturally as possible, in a hospital setting while feeling informed and empowered. Esther helped me prepare through her knowledge, guidance, and encouragement. She helped me feel confident in my choices and trust my body.

Throughout labor and delivery, her calm presence and support were invaluable. During the final stage of delivery, I remember locking in with Esther in a way that is difficult to describe. It felt almost like an out-of-body experience. I was physically present but completely focused inward, connected to my breathing and the process of bringing my baby into the world. Her presence helped me push through the physical challenges, remain focused, and stick to my birth plan until the very end.

I felt fully present, strong, and empowered. I genuinely don’t believe my experience would have been the same without her. Even though we had limited time to prepare, Esther made a lasting impact on my birth story.

Her support extended beyond delivery, helping me feel cared for during the postpartum period as well. I am incredibly grateful for her compassion, knowledge, and dedication.

I wholeheartedly recommend Esther to anyone considering a doula. She helped me experience the birth I had hoped for and gave me the confidence and support to trust myself through one of the most life-changing moments of my life. 

Lauren S

9/30/2026

I was so lucky to find Esther!! My doula journey began very late into my pregnancy because my weeks of research only provided doula services that cost too much money. Finally, I was able to find Mahmee and it offered services via my insurance. The process was very thorough and my wishes were to find a Black doula. I across Esther's profile on the website and requested her. Initially, I was told she was on "baby watch" already and was unable to add me to her client list. I fought hard and informed them that my family needed a Black doula and because I was having a scheduled c-section it should be easy to add me to Esther's list (I had no idea if that was even okay with her, but I was advocating for myself!) The first meeting with Esther I knew my advocacy had paid off. Esther is personable, knowledgable, caring, kind and everything we needed and right on time. Esther helped me navigate being a first time mother and how to advocate in a medical setting. Even though I knew how to advocate for myself, it is very different when you are about to enter into motherhood with natural fears and the unfortunate statistics of Black maternal mortality rates working against you. Luckily, I had an amazing Black OBGYN, my fiance, family and Esther to help me through the preparation for my daughter. After my daughter was born, I was so grateful to have Esther help me with tips on breastfeeding, newborn sleep habits, hormonal changes and how to steal some self care every now and then. Esther has provided countless resources in my community and just been a great listening ear when needed. My daughter is now 8 months old and our family is happy and thriving. Anyone looking for a doula will be in great hands with Esther. Thank you for everything you've done for us Esther!

Nataya Ray

9/26/2026

My experience with Esther was amazing to say the least. She was extremely helpful. Before labor we talked and prepped a lot, she was there for any questions I had but she made me very confident as a first time mom. During labor ahe kept me present, calm, reminded me of a lot of the techniques that we went through and most importantly it felt like I had a best friend there, she made me feel so at ease and also was a huge help to my partner as well. Whenever he didn't know what to do or had moments of doubt she was right there with reassurance and calm guidance. She was an amazing listener and really listened to the things I wanted and moved accordingly. She helped my partner feel confident as well. If I ever choose to have more children Esther will be the doula I'm choosing!!

Monteka Maddox

9/25/2026

When I was told that the doula who had supported me during my birth would not be continuing with my postpartum care and that a new doula would be assigned, I was honestly a little apprehensive. I wasn’t sure what to expect from someone new during such a vulnerable and exhausting time. Those worries disappeared almost immediately after meeting Ester.

She came into our home months later and was incredibly warm, attentive, and supportive. She was wonderful with my baby—so calm, gentle, and naturally caring and I felt completely comfortable having her look after him. She also helped with the things that made such a difference as a new mom, from washing dishes and giving me time to rest, to providing wellness care, thoughtful advice, and emotional support.

What has meant the most to me is that her care never felt like simply a job. She genuinely connected with both of us and has continued to check in on my baby even after her time supporting us in person. That level of thoughtfulness and genuine care is something I’ll always appreciate.

I’m so grateful she became part of our postpartum journey. She was kind, dependable, knowledgeable, nurturing, and truly supportive, and I would wholeheartedly recommend her to any new mom.

Gabrielle McKinney

7/20/2026

I cannot say enough amazing things about Esther Karpilow! She was truly incredible, supportive, caring, and reassuring throughout my entire experience. She made me feel heard, comfortable, and supported every step of the way. Her encouragement and presence meant so much to me, and I am beyond grateful to have had her by my side. I highly recommend Esther to any expecting mom—she is truly amazing! ??

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Casandra

7/9/2026

Working with Esther as my doula was the best. From the beginning, she made me feel supported, informed, and cared for. She provided so much helpful information before labor, helping me understand what to expect and making me feel more prepared and confident going into my delivery at Valley Presbyterian Hospital. This was my first birth and I was terrified! 

Esther took the time to video chat with me postpartum to check in, answer my questions, and see how I was doing both physically and emotionally.

She’s compassionate, knowledgeable, and truly invested in the families she works with. I’m grateful for her support and would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a doula!

Erin

7/8/2026

I am so happy that I found Esther to support me during a very big transition time that I needed the help so greatly. Her and I really connected and she was really good at knowing how to step in and do things that needed to be done around the house to help me relax and keep my home orderly. I hired her as a postpartum Doula, but I will continue to use her services in the future if needed. She is great with kids and I trust her and I really enjoy having her around. I highly recommend her if you need any support she is a really good resource and has great energy.