I knew from the beginning that I wanted to give birth as naturally as possible with minimal intervention. I had looked into hiring a doula but didn't contact MaryBeth until the last minute (36 weeks). Thankfully she was available and able to meet quickly. In addition to asking about our ideal labor plan, Marybeth provided documentation (hypnobirth, vaccination schedules, etc) and recommended a few pediatricians in the area.
I went into labor at midnight in my 39th week. I texted with her over the next 24 hours to determine when I needed to leave for the hospital. She provided me with tips to help with the contractions and answered my questions as labor progressed.
After 24 hours of laboring at home we decided it was time to move to the hospital. She met us shortly after our arrival. She worked with the nurses and midwives to ensure I was comfortable and helped me with different techniques (birthing ball, shower, tub, squat bar, etc) and positions for handling the contractions as they got stronger. One tip was that we did not use the word "pain" - the nurses did not offer me pain medication and did not ask me my pain levels. We used words like "pressure" instead.
After 9 hours of contractions it was time to push! MaryBeth and the midwife guided me and my husband during this part of labor. They kept me hydrated and monitored the baby and helped me into different positions for the birth. We gave birth to a baby girl 3 hours of pushing later!
I had wanted a medication free labor and she made that a reality! I highly recommend her!
-Kathryn Graber
December 09, 2016
Changing Birth
Birth Fee: $725 to $1000