I used Shelby as my doula for the birth of my second child in March 2016. I had given birth to my first child in December 2009 and did not use a doula for that birth. The labor was horrible and long with my first child and I felt I had little guidance on best birthing positions to help ease the pain. I even had an epidural for most of the labor. To say the least I felt traumatized after my first birth so I had a lot of anxiety about the second birth. I knew I wanted an epidural for my second birth but I also wanted guidance and help through the birth process. I am so glad I decided on a doula even with wanting a medicated birth. Shelby was able to give me advice on what positions to use for sleeping weeks before the birth and positions to use at home when labor started. However, I didn't labor at home because my blood pressure shot up and I had to be induced. She gave great advice during the day and I got through the majority of my labor without an epidural and minimal pain. She gave great advice on getting the baby in position and I had a short pushing period before I greeted my baby. I was done before dinner. My birth experiences with and without a doula were night and day. I would recommend Shelby and a doula to anyone given birth. Natural or medicated - I am a firm believer in doulas now. What a great experience! They are truly a asset to any birth and are there with you the entire time helping guide you in the way you want. They add a vital component to the birth process. The nurses and dr are great but are not available to you during the majority of your labor the way a doula is. Shelby is great on helping you achieve your perfect birth!
-Tammy Bowman Ruel
July 12, 2016
Essential Deliveries
Birth Fee: $1200