Testimonial for Denise Bolds MSW, CD(DONA) CLC, CBE
When we found out we were expecting, one of my first thoughts was "I can't believe my dream of becoming a mother is coming true! I want to be sure that I bring this baby into the world in a safe, calm, and cheerful way...that's my number one priority." I began searching for a Doula because I'd read of their effectiveness in providing good techniques for pain management, reduce psychological stress during the birth process, and best of all, be a SOLID partner to the couple as they bring their baby into the world. I'm so happy that my husband and I decided to select Denise (among several other doulas in the area) to partner with us in this experience. She helped us come up with a birth plan based on my wishes to have an empowered birth experience and took the time out to hear my concerns/fears as I drew closer to my due date. When we realized that my baby was VERY comfortable in the womb and doctors recommended that I be induced just shy of 42 weeks, I was devastated that our birth plan had taken a detour. I didn't know how to fully handle that, but Denise was right there to give me support and ease my concerns about the induction process. After being induced, we deviated from the birth plan again since I opted for morphine, then an epidural to help me manage my contractions as the medication caused them to be more intense that I'd previously experienced. Denise was right by my side again, without judgement or shaming, she supported my decision and reminded me that when it was time to push, if the epidural wore off, I could STILL do it. I could still give birth to my daughter without fear or anxiety, and I could bring her into the world in the safe and calm way that I'd imagined. That's EXACTLY what happened! When I felt that my body wanted/needed to push as the contractions built up, Denise reminded me that my goal was a vaginal birth without fear and minimal pain. That's the exact experience that I had, thanks to her expertise! She's extraordinary.
-Jannette Merritt
June 16, 2016
Denise Bolds MSW, CD(DONA) CLC, CBE
Bold Doula! Black Women Do VBAC, CLC, CBE
Birth Fee: $0 to $5000
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $60
