Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/them)
I truly cannot recommend Mel enough! I contacted Mel when I was pregnant with my 3rd. I recently had moved to IL so it was a lot to navigate a new state and new providers. My first 2 were unexpectedly born via c-section, and I was determined to have a VBA2C. Mel and I had our initial intake meeting, and right off the bat, I knew that they were the perfect match for what I needed. Mel was there with me every step of the way, during highs and lows of the pregnancy, including many conversations with providers about odds that were against me in obtaining a VBAC. Mel was always reassuring and empowered me to overcome the obstacles and not give up on what I wanted. Mel stayed in contact with us during early labor and met us at the hospital. During labor, Mel provided the perfect amount of support - being there for me when they knew I needed it, but then also letting me do my thing while I was coping well. Mel also was an amazing support for my spouse. Our midwife was not involved during most of my laboring, but Mel was right by my side, having me move around and had so many great positions and recommendations to get baby to move down. Mel respected when I didn't like or want to do something and always had another recommendation if that was the case. When it came time to push, my midwife had me in the hospital bed, and it wasn't the best position for me and baby. Mel had took note earlier on that I was most effective with pushing while standing up, and they voiced that recommendation to my midwife. Only a few minutes later, while I was pushing and standing up, our baby was born via VBAC! For someone who had 2 c-sections prior, and felt like the medical field was against me, it was amazing to have someone recognize a strength and advocated for me to help me be successful. Even weeks after birth, Mel came to my house for a birth debrief and pampered me with a footbath! Mel truly is here to support you, and you will feel that every step of the way, even after delivery.
-Teague
February 01, 2025
Melissa F. Haley (they/them)
M.Ed., CD, CBE @wyld_garden
Birth Fee: $1900 to $2300
Postpartum Rate: $45
