Testimonial for Lisa Shire, CLE, CD(DONA)
I have had the opportunity to have Lisa present at both of my births. She was incredibly helpful at both, giving me great advice when it came to relaxing through my contractions and just learning to trust the process.
I gave birth to my son last year in May. Although it was originally planned to be in a birth center, I was transferred to the hospital due to failure to progress. At the hospital I was able to get the epidural and relax. Lisa was very reassuring and supported me through this entire process. During this labor with my son, I ended up spiking a fever twice. Lisa was very quick to grab ice cold rags and place them all over my back, chest, and forward to bring the initial fever down, allowing me to labor just a little longer before I had to go in for a cesarean. Lisa was able to be in the OR with my husband and I. This was incredibly comforting for me.
When I found out that I was pregnant back in October of last year, just 5.5 months post-partum with my son, I knew I wanted Lisa to be at the birth of my second baby. This time I was going to be attempting a VBAC and knew I wanted her by my side with how comfortable and supportive she was through the birth of my son. . Lisa offered great advice and support for helping prepare for my VBAC. As the days were getting near, I really started to doubt my abilities to have a VBAC and she was amazing by offering links for birth affirmations and mantras. The labor and birth of my daughter was much different than my son's. It progressed very quickly and I believe it was due to a tension releasing mouth peice that Lisa offered me to use. It helped me cope through the pain all the while letting me relax all the tension in my body. I ended up getting my all-natural, unmedicated VBAC and I honestly know think it would have happened without the support Lisa and my family provided. I highly recommend taking her on as your doula.
-Michelle Madrigal
August 04, 2015
Lisa Shire, CLE, CD(DONA)
A Hand To Lend Birth Doula Services
Birth Fee: $2000 to $2500
