Testimonial for Jen Hamilton, BS, Full Spectrum Doula, IBCLC
We were matched with Jen based on our request for a size friendly doula with a sense of humor. She met with us before my due date and educated us on what to expect from her, as well as different techniques she uses to provide support auring labor. She also took (amazing) photos immediately after our daughter was born, capturing moments we can look back on that would have otherwise been gone forever.
Jen came to the hospital with her “bag of tricks” and knowledge of how to support both my husband and I during labor. She lead us through silly walks down the hall, held my hand while I threw up, and urged me to moan it out during contractions. She spoke with my excited (and anxious) mother-in-law and ensured that my husband got breaks and ate.
Towards the end of labor the baby’s heart rate monitor stopped picking up her heartbeat, which resulted in lots of stress and anxiety from hospital staff. Jen kept my husband and I calm and focused on the task at hand -- birthing our beautiful daughter. Instead of getting caught up in the frantic energy of the room I was able to ignore much of what was happening around me because of Jen’s calming words and affirmations.
I know we could have birthed our daughter without Jen there, but it would have been a much different experience, one that would have been more stressful, bewildering, as well as emotionally and physically draining.
Postpartum care has been instrumental in gaining confidence as a new parent. She visited days after our daughter’s birth, encouraging us as she checked on breastfeeding and our emotional well-being. She has been super at responding to my random questions via text (Is this amount of spit-up normal? What is this discharge coming out of her? Am I diapering her correctly?) No question has been too small or weird for her to answer. Jen has been a wonderful support as we navigate the transition from a family of two to a family of three.
-Annie Kuthart
May 25, 2017
Jen Hamilton, BS, Full Spectrum Doula, IBCLC
wee welcome doula & lactation
Birth Fee: $3000 to $3500
Postpartum Rate: $0 to $75
