Testimonial for Lisa McDonald CD(DONA)
Lisa McDonald was an amazing doula during my last few weeks of pregnancy and especially during labor. Since this was my first child, I had almost no idea on how to approach the impending birth. I knew I wanted it to be a natural birth, but I also knew I was going to be delivering in a hospital. Lisa listened to my wants and concerns as an experienced mother and knowledgeable doula, giving me many resources on how to prepare myself for a natural labor and how to minimize time spent at the hospital.
When I was in early labor with inconsistent contractions, Lisa gave me suggestions on how to kick myself into active labor, such as exercises, drink concoctions, etc. She was a godsend during active labor. Once labor sped up, she came to our apartment immediately to relieve my husband of pain mitigation duty. I had horrible back labor, pain radiating through my lower back with every contraction, making it necessary to apply lots of pressure there to mitigate it. Knowing I didn't want any medical intervention, she brought with her an arsenal of natural pain mitigation techniques. My favorite was a rolling pin that could be filled with hot water and rolled up and down my lower back during contractions while I sprawled over an exercise ball. There were times where I thought I couldn't get through another contraction (I remember saying so), but Lisa encouraged me and psyched me up for each one.
Her sense of time was impeccable! She wanted me to labor as much as I could at home where I was comfortable. I was laboring in the tub when I suddenly went into transition. Only then did she suggest we head to the hospital for the delivery. My water broke on the 5 minute trip to the hospital, and an hour later my husband and I had our little daughter in our arms. I could not have had a more ideal experience for my first birth, all thanks to Lisa's guidance. She is a true professional in her field. I will definitely be having her as my doula for our next baby!
-Meghan Packard
February 12, 2019
Lisa McDonald CD(DONA)
Wise Woman Birth Services
Birth Fee: $1800
Postpartum Rate: $40
