I wanted to try to have a natural birth as I had witnessed some births while in nursing school that I believed could have had better outcomes if the mother had been able to move more. I was fearful of the feeling of being stuck in bed with an epidural. I also especially wanted someone who would support not only me but also my husband. Chloe was so helpful through out labor and as I was hoping supporting my husband who at some points was pale simply from supporting me and not being able to easily take breaks. She helped us to try other positions to manage labor and contractions. We enjoyed her calm and confident manner, and sense of humor. When had started to think about having a doula when we heard about the statistics of how outcomes are improved with doula support, we where unsure if the cost would make sense to us. We thought Chloe's fee was very reasonable and even felt like paying a little extra so that it could be saved for another family that might have more difficulties with the cost. We had a "Textbook" first time labor, and where even able to not use the the monitoring belts and just have periodical checks. I was doubting myself during transition and wondering if I needed the epidural but with encouragement, and checking my progress was able to continue and refocus. Her assistance was invaluable to us and we will probably use her at our next delivery also.
-Ruth Linari
June 24, 2016
Snohomish County Doula
Birth Fee: $1200
Postpartum Rate: $30