Testimonial for Marcia Mattern, CD (DONA)
I did not use a doula with my 1st pregnancy, but decided to hire a doula the 2nd time around. My first pregnancy was over 35 hours long, and both my husband and I wanted more support this time. I was so happy to have Marcia on our birth team! She has a very calming presence & exudes confidence, which makes you feel more at ease and in-control also. She is kind, a good listener, and helps to alieve any fears you might have about pregnancy/birth, by sharing from her own experience (she has 6 kids and experience birthing in a hospital setting and in her own home, so she knows a thing or two!), scientific-based articles and research, and faith-based scriptures. In the weeks leading up to my birth, I knew I could call/text any time, and she was readily available to discuss whatever worry or concern I had. We also met a few times in person, and those meetings always left me feeling excited about my baby's upcoming birth, instead of fearful. Marcia is natural-birth minded (though is also all for medical intervention when truly necessary), and has incredible confidence in the female body to do what God designed it to do. Marcia came to our home in the wee hours of the night on the day of my baby's birth, and helped me through some intense contractions by squeezing my hips, reminding me of my birth plan, suggesting alternate positions, and sharing scripture with me. As it turns out, this second birthing experience wound up being incredibly fast (about 4 hours from start to finish!), but we were still glad we hired Marcia. At the hospital, Marcia will not speak on your behalf to staff, but she WILL remind you of your birth plan, give you information to help you understand what is being asked of you (to help you make an informed decision), offer ideas for natural pain management, and be your biggest cheer leader! After birth, she will also check in on you (by phone) once a week for the first month to discuss anything that is on your mind. We highly reccomend Marcia!
-Crystal L. Radovanovic
December 15, 2016
Marcia Mattern, CD (DONA)
Your Doula Marcia Mattern
Birth Fee: $1700
