Testimonial for Stephanie Sauer Pasternak, CD(DONA), CLC
Where do I begin with this review...I was under the impression that a doula shows up at your birth, helps you get through labor, and that's the end of that relationship. Stephanie was an amazing support through the labor process, but it was the time before and after the birth that caused my husband and I to frequently say "wow, it was worth it to hire Stephanie just for that."
Prior to labor, Stephanie came to our house twice to ensure we were physically and emotionally ready for the arrival of our baby girl. She checked in over email throughout the last trimester, and was so responsive to the barrage of requests I sent her over that time. She helped me change over to a new midwife practice, and also find a great local pediatrician and chiropractor (all people she would personally vouch for), and any health-related recommendations she sent to us were always accompanied with the supporting science/research.
During labor, Stephanie did everything I could have wanted or needed.
After labor, Stephanie stayed with us to work on nursing and ensure we were ready to move to recovery. Our baby is now 12 days old and I've talked to Stephanie almost every day. She came for a post-partum visit and immediately corrected the bad latching habits I had picked up at the hospital. She's talked me off the ledge multiple afternoons and always texts me back - even when I'm losing my cool over a 3 am feeding. When I asked if she knew anyone who could come give us a night of relief (post-partum doula), she immediately called up her contacts and found us someone great.
In summary - Stephanie has been everything to us. Her local connections, experience as a mother of 3, and training as a lactation consultant make her an incredible resource. Her compassion, sense of humor, and boundless energy make her a fantastic doula. I can't imagine having gone through this experience without her.
-Sarah Henderson
June 05, 2018
Stephanie Sauer Pasternak, CD(DONA), CLC
Bergen Doula - Birth Doula & Lactation Counseling
Birth Fee: $1950 to $3500
