Testimonial for Melissa Davis
With Melissa's help, patience and encouragement, I was able to stick to my birth plan. Like most mothers, my goal was to spontaneously go into labor, but due to the baby's size I had to be induced at 39 weeks. I was not mentally prepared for the intensity, nor the length of time that it would take to reach delivery. My first birth was spontaneous, quick and unmedicated. This time around, I labored with Pitocin for 15 hours without an epidural. Thankfully, Melissa was there to help me stay focused and centered. She had flameless candles, a scent diffuser, and she played a variety of mellow music that helped to relax me. During each contraction, she reminded me to relax and give a low, deep moan. She stressed that this moaning would help open me up. Focusing on my breathing also took my mind off of the intensity of the contractions. At Melissa’s recommendation, I spent a lot of time laboring on the birth ball, and also used the peanut ball when laying in the bed. This helped to bring baby down and to open my hips. She also advocated on my behalf to the nurses that walking would be good for me. When walking was no longer an option due to being plugged in to the IV and needing to be constantly monitored by machines, she turned on some fun music and got me up to dance and move around in the space available. I am grateful that I was able to still follow my birth plan and deliver my 10 lbs 10 oz baby boy without an epidural, despite the intensity of the contractions. I never would have been able to do it without Melissa’s invaluable help. I highly recommend her, as she is caring, listens, and is an excellent advocate during a mother’s most vulnerable time. Not once did I feel pressure to labor in a certain way. She made many excellent suggestions, and when I had ideas she listened and went with what felt comfortable and natural to me. My birth experience was positive, and I recommend all mothers have a doula on their birth. Kudos to Melissa!
-Sheena Davis Ogee
June 06, 2018
Melissa Davis
Hands of Melody
Birth Fee: $500 to $1500
Postpartum Rate: $50 to $70
