Overall I had a very good experience with Rachel as a doula and I would definitely recommend her!
The main reason why I chose Rachel as my doula is that she is very down to earth and I felt very comfortable with her.
This was my first pregnancy, so I had a lot of questions about pregnancy, as well as questions about where to deliver. Rachel was always responsive, thorough, and reassuring, and also offered natural solutions before medicated solutions which I really appreciated.
My labor came on very fast so Rachel only made it to the hospital once we were ready to start the pushing stage, and at this point my partner was very engaged with coaching and comforting me, but Rachel quietly eased herself in. Rachel helped coach my breathing through the pushing, and helped make suggestions for various positions. As we were having problems delivering, the mid-wife made some recommendations for pain relief and induction late in labor. Rachel helped us understand the situation and managed the hospital staff while we decided. Rachel also developed a good relationship with our mid-wife throughout the labor which given my mid-wifes strong personality was a challenge. Rachel was committed to our birth despite having her own newborn at home, and helped in any way she could including running down to move our car which we had left at the front door in urgency, and picked up the camera and captured some beautiful pictures for us when our son was born.
I think what I found most helpful with Rachel was the post natal care. I had many questions about breastfeeding, cosleeping, baby gas, etc. which Rachel again fielded for me in good time. During our postnatal visit she helped us give our baby his first bath which we didn't feel comfortable doing ourselves. She also sent us a little outdoor sleeper in the mail since she noticed we were lacking one while she was over.
Overall, we were very happy and would recommend her!
-Amber Robson
January 07, 2014
Family Ways
Birth Fee: $950 to $2500
Postpartum Rate: $35 to $45