At the beginning of my pregnancy, I wasn't sure if I wanted a birth doula. My pregnancy had been mostly uncompicated and I had a great support network. However, after listening to advice from friends and family and doing some of the research on the benefits of birth doulas, I started my search for the best match. From the first interview with Jess, I felt a connection - I just knew she was the one. Her calm and composure was exactly what I needed for my labor, and only reaffirmed by our prenatal visits.
When my labor started, Jess helped with techniques to mitigate the initial discomfort at home. While in triage, my contractions were absolutely excruciating - Jess came and helped with massages, cold packs, and even a TENS unit for pain. She tried to keep me present in moments of great pain. And she advocated for my preferences when I could not talk or think clearly due to the intensity of the contractions and the stress of the situation. After 24 hours of contractions and two visits to triage, I was finally admitted for irregularities in the baby's hearbeat during the contractions.
I needed more interventions than I initially expected (epidural, water breakage, induction), and Jess and my husband became a fantastic team that kept track of all that was being done and said. In total, it was more than 40 hours of labor before my baby was born (on her due date!). During all this time, Jess was simply amazing. Her focus on my needs and her deep sense of empathy made this time more bearable, and we even had some fun after I got my epidural - telling funny stories, playing MadLibs, listening to music - moments that I'll never forget. Finally, after some fear and uncertainty, my baby girl was born. We were all exhausted, but with a full and happy heart.
We will never forget Jess, and she will always be a part of our family's story. Her kindness is something that will stick with us forever, and we'll be always grateful to her.
-Melina
January 14, 2026
Jessica Mascher, LMT & Perinatal Services
Birth Fee: $3000
Postpartum Rate: $55 to $65
