Testimonial for Sue Chargo, ICBD, ICCE, (ICEA) Doula, Educator, Lactation Counselor, Doula Trainer
I don’t think I can even put into words how helpful it was to have Sue as our doula! From the moment my husband and I met with her, we knew we were going to be in good hands. She was very sweet, professional, and knowledgeable - she was just the kind of person we wanted to support us through the birth of my first baby. All of our questions, fears, and silly concerns were put to rest and I was able to walk into the birthing experience excited, calm, and confident.
My goal was to have a natural, unmedicated birth with a midwife and the support of my husband and Sue. The day I went into labor was quite interesting - everything started off slowly, but escalated quickly in the evening once my water spontaneously broke! We ended up meeting Sue at our freestanding birth center, but when my midwife checked me, she noticed that when my water broke, there was meconium in the fluid, requiring a non-emergency transfer to the hospital. I was upset that I wasn’t able to birth in the beautiful tubs at the birth center, but Sue was wonderful emotional support as she reassured me that I could still have a great birth experience! I was so grateful to have her there in that moment because I really needed that reassurance.
Once we arrived at the hospital, labor progressed quickly. Sue helped me with different positions, pain management techniques, and even had some great things for me to try when intense nausea kicked in. While much of the night is a blur, I remember having her on my left side and my husband on my right side holding my hands, encouraging me, and just being present. I felt like I had the best support team in the world!
We were able to successfully have a natural, unmedicated birth at the hospital - I was actually able to labor in the tub for a while as well! I am certain that having Sue there was a huge part of why our birth was such a calm, exciting, and simply wonderful experience. I would hire her all over again!!
-Rebecca Vavilov
February 11, 2018
Birth Fee: $2000 to $3250
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $45
