Let me start by saying that I acknowledge being a possibility difficult person to work with because I have a need to be in control of most things and I hadn't yet mastered the art of "letting go" when heading into labor and giving birth. I could not have found a better match than having Joyce as my birth doula.
My husband and I met with Joyce for the prenatal visits that she offered and we felt very prepared for our planned all natural, non medical intervention birthing center birth. When my labor took an unexpected and emotionally devastating turn and I had to be induced due to prolonged rupture of membranes (aka. my water broke but no labor or contractions started), Joyce helped me to accept and transition to my birth story in a way that can not be taught in classes or even with experience.
Joyce has found the delicate balance of being a knowledgeable resource and competent professional and being in touch with the human experience of labor and giving birth. As my epidural was being placed and ultimately being prepared for my c-section after my labor was still failing to progress, Joyce was the steady hand and reassuring ear that helped get me through. While I thought Joyce would be at my side helping with my breathing, doing labor massage and pushing through contractions, having her there when things didn't go according to plan ended being an even bigger asset.
Additionally, she was very helpful during her post partum visits including her breastfeeding advice to help me to get my milk supply to come in after c-section. If I were doing it again, I wouldn't think of having another doula other than Joyce.
-Nicole Forman
May 10, 2017
BirthAmbassador
Birth Fee: $3250 to $4500