After having had such a great experience with Joyce when my son was born 2 years ago, when I learned that I was pregnant again, the only logical choice was to make sure Joyce could support our family through this second birth.
With my 2nd, I was AMA, and learned very early on that I had a two vessel umbilical cord. Because of these two factors I was subjected to many more tests than I had had with my first,which lead to much more anxiety. Joyce was there with me every step along the way, always giving alternatives the doctors did not share, and providing me necessary reassurance. When it came time for the birth, she was the calming presence in the room that I needed to have a totally different, yet equally memorable birth.
One may think that a doula is only useful for a first time mom - but as no two children are alike, no two pregnancies or births are alike which is why having Joyce as a constant to bounce ideas off of and get a 2nd opinion was so helpful - even the 2nd time around!
I feel so fortunate to have had Joyce present for the birth of both of my children. If you can find a doula that you like, try and have her present at all of your births. Though you don't spend much time physically together, sharing in the experience of child birth bonds you with someone forever, and I am lucky that I was able to share that with Joyce, twice. 6 months after the birth of my daughter she remains a top resource for me that I feel very fortunate to have.
-Atina Gordon
June 28, 2017
BirthAmbassador
Birth Fee: $3250 to $4500