Despite doing my homework, I thought that doulas really only benefitted the mother. It quickly became clear to me, however, that Becky was there to support mother, father, & baby. As a husband, I don't know how I would have made it without her help throughout the process.
Before birth: It was SO helpful to have someone to call/text with questions. We often sent her a description or photo followed by "is this normal?", and her answers really helped to decrease our anxiety. In addition, having someone to help us think through our birth plan, give us ideas of questions to ask our doctors, & clarify some common misconceptions was immensely helpful.
During birth: My wife's birth was not textbook. She went from 0cm dilated to 4cm and screaming in pain in just a few hours. This is not what I had expected from the birthing classes & pregnancy books, so I was really scared. I texted Becky, & she was amazing!! She called immediately & gave us some things to try for the pain, & she helped us to decide when to call the doctor. When we got to the hospital, she supported my wife in any way possible. Without getting into the gory details, the actual birth was challenging, & I honestly do not know how I would have made it through without Becky. Though she focused on helping my wife with pain and pushing, she made sure that I was doing okay through all of this, also.
After birth: Our son had difficulty breastfeeding early on & lost a dangerous amount of weight. Becky came over for a post-partum visit, checked in with my wife, & helped us troubleshoot. Even after that visit, she would text/email to see how we were doing & to find out if she could help in any way. Again, I don't know what we would have done without her.
Rereading this, I realize that I didn't adequately capture just how helpful and important Becky was for us. All I can say is that I would recommend her to ANYONE going through pregnancy!!
-Chris Thompson
June 16, 2014
Maryland Birth Services, LLC
Birth Fee: $1500 to $2300