I strongly recommend Audrea Blayer, my birth doula for my second child. I had a very difficult labor and shoulder dystocia with my first baby, and was very concerned that the same situation would the second time. In my first meeting with Audrea, we discussed my previous difficult labor and birth, along with my goal to have a natural childbirth outside of the hospital. Audrea was extremely supportive of my goal and worked with me on ways to prepare my body and mind for a better birth, including working with a chiropractor, Spinning Babies videos, and relaxation exercises. The night I went into labor, I noticed contractions while soaking in the tub, so I started texting back and forth with Audrea, trying to figure out whether this was real labor, or just Braxton-Hicks contractions. It was great being able to reach her so quickly. Once we figured out that I was in labor, we made arrangements to meet at the birth center, about 45 minutes away. At the birth center, I continued to soak in the tub while Audrea arrived with an intern and we all sat around the tub chatting and relaxing. At this stage, I really just wanted someone to chat with, to take my mind off my previous difficult labor. I think this was the most important aspect of the doula experience for me because being able to manage my stress level and stay relaxed allowed me to have a much more gentle birth with my second child. While in the tub hanging out and enjoying my conversation with Audrea, I progressed to the final stage of labor within about 45 minutes. I don’t remember the contractions being particularly painful either, though they were intense, and I did have some nausea. I felt completely relaxed and in the zone. After about 20 minutes of pushing, Shelby was born. I had just a small tear and was able to go home later that day with my new baby girl.
-Judie Howrylak
February 22, 2018
Born For This Doula Services
Birth Fee: $1150 to $1225
Postpartum Rate: $35 to $40