I hired Maria to be my birth doula as I was afraid that there would be no one to advocate for my preferences during actual birth. My birth prefrence was to have vaginal unmedicated birth. Before hiring Maria, I was skeptical if doula can help much with pain management, and hence, I was mainly looking for someone who can advise us if the doctor's recommendations makes sense and also as a helping hand for my husband. What surprised me most during actual labor was how much Maria helped with pain management. She constantly massaged me, put me in different positions and suggest options for pain management. Even before my labor started she would check on me after my weekly doctor's appointments asking how things are. I didn't feel comfortable burdening her but she was also checking in. Besides pain management she knew when I was having contractions, when I was transitioning and when I was pushing. As a first time mom all of these experiences were new to me. Many times I thought I was having contractions but wasn't sure if its just severe back pain or contractions, and also when they start and end. Maria was also a huge help for my husband. He could leave me with her and fetch the car or go use the restroom without being anxious of leaving me alone. My birth experience was so much better than I expected, thanks to Maria. If I were to do it again, I would definitely hire her as my doula.
-Vivi Kofman
February 28, 2018
Birth Fee: Not specified
Postpartum Rate: Not specified