Testimonial for Mariah Falin, CD(PALS), PPD, PES
My husband and I are both scientists and had read that having a doula significantly reduces the chances of complications and cesarean section, so we knew we wanted a doula for the birth of our first child. We found Mariah and her partner Ildi online and on our first meeting with them we felt immediately at ease and knew they would be wonderful to work with.
Mariah and Ildi visited with us (one time each) before the birth to help me mentally and physically prepare for labor and delivery. Mariah in particular helped me to change my perspective about pain as progress in labor that I found extremely helpful through out the process. I had several false alarms near the end of my pregnancy where both my husband and I were convinced I was in active labor. We called up Mariah each time, once at 2 am, to ask her about the contractions and she was always very helpful and reassuring. When my water finally broke a week later at 2am, we called Mariah up again and she excitedly agreed to meet us at the hospital.
Through out the labor Mariah was a calming influence, helping me remember to try different positions and keep my positive outlook on my progress. My husband also said that Mariah was helpful to him, by making sure he was eating enough and keeping both our spirits up. Also, by watching Mariah early in my labor he was able to learn and was really effective at being my "rock" later on when I really needed him for emotional support. I was hoping to achieve an unmedicated birth, but I got stuck in transition at about 9.5cm dialated. After about 2hrs of being stuck in this exhausting state and fighting the urge to push, I decided to get an epidural. Mariah was totally supportive of all of my decisions, and although it wasn't what I had planned I have no regrets about the way it went. I would happily reccomend Mariah to any expectant parents. She was immensely helpful and professional, while still managing to be warm and cheerful.
-Gwenn Hennon
February 14, 2016
Mariah Falin, CD(PALS), PPD, PES
Birth Matters NW
Birth Fee: $3600
Postpartum Rate: $60 to $65
