Testimonial for Christina Carino CD(DONA)
I had interviewed a few doulas over email and phone but just could not seem to find the right match. I teetered back and forth on whether or not having a doula was something I could afford or even needed. I thought perhaps I would be too "in my head" and that having a stranger there leading up to and on the day of my babys birth might somehow be awkward or annoying. Pretty late into my pregnancy, I decided to look on doula match one last time. Im not sure if it was her picture or her bio but something drew me to Christina. We chatted briefly over email and then a lengthy call and we just clicked. I didnt even need to meet her in person, I hired her based on the initial phone call, which says a lot.
Her 2 prenatal visits were informative, fun and thorough. My hubby and I particularly liked the hands on techniques she showed us for pain management and wound up using them while I labored at home. Christina was available and responsive to any and all emails or for a quick chat when I found out I had Group B Strep which made me very nervous.
When I went into labor, she was on call and in touch with us. My active labor progressed very quickly so unfortunately we did not have time for her to come to our home but she took it upon herself to leave for the hospital anyway when things looked like they were moving along. She showed up when I needed her most (unlike my midwife!) and was by my side coaching me, reminding me, advocating for me and baby. She helped set my mind at ease and I felt confident I could have an unmedicated birth by rememebering all the things she had told me along the way and knowing she was right there.
When baby was born she took some amazing photos and helped us settle in to our room. She helped with initial breastfeeding, changing of the baby and anything else my husband and I needed. I cant say enough and would recommend her highly to anyone! Shes a special woman and I now consider her a friend!
-Amy Parks
February 23, 2015
Christina Carino CD(DONA)
Belly to Birth
Birth Fee: $1800 to $2600
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $60
