I was so lucky to have had Leyre as my doula for my recent TOLAC (trial of labor after cesarean). This was my 2nd child, and with my first I'd had an unplanned but necessary C-section (baby's head was stuck in my pelvis after 3h pushing - and he came out with an APGAR of 3 [quickly recovered by 5 mins] so if I had waited any longer things could have been bad). After a tough decision making process, I decided I wanted to attempt a VBAC and I knew I wanted the support of a doula as I prepared for this. Leyre was phenomenal. She supported me throughout the pregnancy, and our meetings and discussions helped me prepare as much as I possibly could and alleviate some of my fears about the possible risks. With her support and guidance, I came up with a birth plan I felt really good about, one that included many firm boundaries aimed at minimizing my risk of complications/maximizing my chance of success. I ended up having a very quick labor (much quicker than my 1st) and Leyre was still there with me by my side right away when I got to the hospital (our plan). Her support was essential to me as I faced intense pain and some fear. Ultimately, after 2 hours of pushing without progress I chose to proceed with a repeat c-section as per my previously decided labor boundaries, and I have absolutely no regrets. It turns out that baby was occiput transverse just like my first, and it turns out my lower uterine segment was thin which meant I was at increased risk of uterine rupture and may have had I continued to push. But baby was born healthy and I had a wonderful experience overall, and Leyre was a huge part of that. Not only was she a calming and empathetic presence during and after the birth, but was also an essential part of developing a birth plan that I felt confident and safe about going into labor - and one that indeed kept me and baby safe. I will forever be grateful for her support in what was truly a positive birth experience for me.
-Janet Okorji
May 13, 2026
Leyres Birth Haven
Birth Fee: $400 to $1500