Testimonial for Odessa Bates, MA, CD, CPD, CPES
Bridget and Ryan
Doula Odessa & Birth Services was such a blessing to have throughout our pregnancy and birthing journey. Odessa was knowledgeable, competent, kind, and consistently focused on providing the best support for the vision we had for our birthing experience. She helped us establish a birth plan that aligned with our values and goals without trying to force any path on us.
In today’s world there are so many books, social media influencers, and people in your life with something to say about giving birth. As first time parents, trying to weed through all these voices was overwhelming. Odessa helped guide us through all our questions and concerns while seamlessly integrating with the hospital staff where we gave birth.
During preparation I was constantly commended by midwives and nurses for how comprehensive and well thought out my birth plan and questions were at each appointment, and we owe that to the preparation Odessa provided.
Odessa was on call 24/7 several times leading up to birth because I had a false alarm on my water breaking. After my water actually broke Odessa was easily contacted as promised and showed up earlier than required to assist us. During actual labor our son had a low heart rate which scared us, but her presence helped alleviate our concerns. She was able to ask the right questions to hospital staff to calm us and offer insight into certain positions and techniques that reduced stress on our baby.
Overall, we can’t thank Odessa enough for the support she provided. Getting pregnant and giving birth can be scary, but having someone in your corner advocating for you when everything gets overwhelming is invaluable. We plan on having more children in the future and even with the experience gained this time around, we plan on having Odessa back in our corner again.
-Bridget & Ryan O'Rourke
February 11, 2026
Odessa Bates, MA, CD, CPD, CPES
Doula Odessa & Birth Services
Birth Fee: $0 to $2000
Postpartum Rate: $0 to $60
