When I reached out to Laura, I was hoping to attempt a VBAC but wasn't entirely convinced that I could do it. I had also had a bad experience with another doula during my previous birth (which ended up a C-Section), so I was unsure whether I should even try working with another doula. I am so glad I did - Laura was exactly what I hoped a doula would be, and I would not hesitate to recommend her.
Laura was wonderful with helping prepare to have the best possible outcome, spent time talking to me about working through any possible physical or emotional issues that might stand in my way and talked me and my husband through the ins and outs of what to expect with labor. She made an effort to get to know us before the birth, so that we would feel comfortable together in labor. When I did go into labor, in the middle of the night, Laura was right there when I asked her to come and she immediately helped with relaxation and encouragement. She was compassionate and warm and supportive and calm, and knew just what to say to help me through the tough contractions. She had a great relationship with the midwife and I really felt like I had a great team helping me through the birth. Laura was with me every minute, and she had amazing intuition for what would be the best kind of support for me at the moment. When I was cold, she got warm blankets or suggested my husband get in bed with me. When the going got tough, she suggested trying to labor in the tub for a while. She held my hand when I needed that and calmed me down when I needed that. I'm so grateful to Laura for playing such a huge part in my successful unmedicated VBAC. She is the best!
-Heather Gillis
March 05, 2014
Holistic Beginnings,LLC
Birth Fee: $1200 to $2400
Postpartum Rate: $50 to $60