Testimonial for Jennifer Mendelson
As our doula, Jennifer added so much to our birth experience. Here is a little story of how she helped me vocalize more effectively in labor:
When I was in active labor, I began moaning through most contractions. I had never really heard of women moaning during labor and was surprised by it, but it just felt right. Making noise helped me feel in tune with my body. I began moaning in a rather high pitched tone. I remember so clearly how Jennifer came over and knelt beside me and started moaning with me. Really, I think hers was more of a hum! The fantastic thing was that as she hummed/moaned with me, she used a very low tone. I instinctively matched her low tone and found it so much more calming. I hadn't realized until she joined me in a low tone that my high tone had been vocalizing out of fear. Even now, I listen in my memory and hear the fear in my voice with those initial vocalizations. I can't even describe the sense of power I felt over my contractions once I was using a deep, low tone for vocalization. Jennifer's wisdom and guidance in this made a huge difference in how I coped with an unmedicated labor.
Later in my labor, when I was probably in Transition, my voice crept back up to those high tones. Jennifer again began vocalizing with me. At this point, I found it very hard to keep my voice deep and low, but with her voice alongside mine, I was able to make it through that very difficult stage.
Jennifer was right there with me every step of the way and offered ways to help before I even knew I was in need. We highly recommend Doula Jennifer and remember her very fondly from her support and beautiful spirit before, during, and after our daughter's birth.
-Anne Belk
August 12, 2011
Jennifer Mendelson
Doula Seattle
Postpartum Rate: $75
