Testimonial for Adrienne Bergthold
As we prepared for a home birth, my husband and I were comforted knowing that we would have Adrienne's knowledge and experience to guide us. She provided a variety of tools (including yoga, breathing, meditation, essential oils, etc) to prepare for childbirth and then she gave me space to decide for myself which ones would be most helpful.
Adrienne was available by text and phone to answer questions and give feedback through the eleven days of "practice" contractions we endured before my daughter's (very late) arrival. When my water finally broke and labor started in earnest, she tracked with me over text until she could join us at our home.
Once Adrienne arrived and started guiding my labor, it kicked into gear immediately. Throughout the day, she made suggestions to keep things moving without rushing or forcing anything. She was matter-of-fact, calm, and quiet, and was actively involved in my progress using massage and pressure points, coaching and providing labor props, and offering mental and physical support when I needed it.
My midwives later observed that it didn't look like this was the first time I had given birth; in fact, although my labor was relatively short for a first-time mom, my baby's crowning was the longest they had ever seen because of my controlled breathing. This focused breathing led to less tearing and more of a feeling of control over my birth experience. I believe both the "quick" labor and extended crowning were a direct result of Adrienne's preparation and presence with me. We were a good team!
I appreciated Adrienne's philosophy of staying calm and releasing, trusting that my body knows what it needs to do. Especially if you have survived a past trauma that could affect your experience of labor, I highly recommend Adrienne to walk alongside both you and your partner as you prepare for a calm and empowered birth.
-Emily Ralph Servant
February 20, 2018
Adrienne Bergthold
Baltimore Birth and Massage
Birth Fee: $1200 to $2000
