Testimonial for Kim Holden, CLC
I had an extremely disappointing first labor and delivery experience ten years ago that ended with an “emergency” C-section, separation from my newborn son and no skin-to-skin contact, despite the fact that both my baby and I were healthy. While I was grateful to have a healthy baby, the lack of support and respect that I experienced undermined my confidence in myself .
I knew that I wanted my second birth to be different, but realized that I needed support. I worked closely with Kim to gain knowledge and understand what my options were so that my husband and I could advocate for our birth. I chose a “baby-friendly” who supported my desire to attempt a VBAC .I worked with Kim in the last few weeks of my pregnancy to learn more about VBACs, gentle cesareans, informed decision making (very important!), labor comfort measures and the strong mind-body connection. We talked about ways to keep my birth space as private, safe and as stress free, as possible. In addition, Kim recommended books and videos for our family so that my 10 year old son could understand the process of labor and birth, as it was our plan for him to be with us during my labor .A few days before my due date in late May, I vaginally delivered my beautiful, healthy baby girl and was able to have immediate skin-to-skin! Within an hour of the birth, my baby instinctively did the newborn crawl to the breast to begin breastfeeding. This entire labor and birth experience was completely different from my first birth - it was positive and empowering and most importantly, it was healing. I am grateful to Kim for her support, for her encouragement and for helping to assuage my fears and understand that my body is designed to give birth. Her guidance helped me to have the healing birth that I never knew was possible.
-Jimena Techera
October 11, 2019
Kim Holden, CLC
DOULA X DESIGN
Birth Fee: Not specified
Postpartum Rate: $45 to $60
