Testimonial for Melissa Johnson VIRTUAL AND IN PERSON SUPPORT from Karen Piercy

Testimonial for Melissa Johnson VIRTUAL AND IN PERSON SUPPORT

Before I was pregnant, I knew I wanted a doula. I had learned of them in school and had seen what they could do. I was, however, unaware of exactly how essential Melissa would be through the entire experience: prenatal, labor and postpartum. Melissa provided two prenatal sessions, which weren't techniques on breathing (although she does talk about it), but more a therapy session for the family on hopes, fears, and wishes of birth. We were able to touch on fears I didn't even know I had and ways to alleviate them. She was able to get to know my husband and see how our relationship worked. Then labor happened. I thought I was doing great, and then she showed up and showed me everything she could do. Changing positions for optimal effectiveness of contractions. How best to breath to let those contractions get stronger. Counter pressure during back labor. A punching bag when I accidentally went swinging during transition. Someone to tell me I was doing great when I started to doubt myself. A go between with my midwife so I knew she was always up to speed without me having to worry. She allowed my husband to be my emotional support while she took care of the physical pain and eased the contractions any way she could. Then postpartum happened. A time where many women are left to their devices with a new babe, sore nipples and lots of questions, and a husband just as confused. Melissa checked in frequently, seeing how we were adjusting, and came to the house for a visit as well as breastfeeding help. When the struggle continued for several weeks, she provided advice and referrals to professionals on how to solve the problem efficiently and effectively. If all that isn't enough, she provides photos from birth as well as a newborn photo shoot. I may have thought I needed a doula before I had my baby, but I didn't realize how much I needed Melissa. She provided an indescribable amount of support, love and knowledge to the birth experience that was invaluable.

-Karen Piercy

January 05, 2020