Testimonial for Joyce Havinga-Droop CD(DONA), CLC, SpBCPE, BRM Pro from Amanda

Testimonial for Joyce Havinga-Droop CD(DONA), CLC, SpBCPE, BRM Pro

I reached out to Joyce hoping to use natural pain relief techniques and labor at home as long as possible before an unmedicated, hospital birth. But as is often the case, none of this was to be for me. I ended up being induced and ultimately having a cesarean. Joyce was fantastic through everything - helping us to understand what was going on and cope with each part of the labor, whether it was dealing with pain or understanding what the monitors were doing. It was great to have a cool and experienced head in the room. Also, it was wonderful to have one person there for just us for the whole time because the nurses and doctors changed with the shifts.

Joyce is very knowledge about natural AND medicated birth, and was able to explain everything that was going on. While you have to make all the decisions, she will make sure you are aware of as much as she can. Also, my husband found her immensely helpful too. She would do things like remind him to eat and drink. I had originally wanted intermittent monitoring but this was not an option when being induced and she helped me to still move around while being attached to the monitors. She knows her way around hospitals too.

She also met with us several times before and after the birth, providing lots of suggestions on various areas - even assisting with breastfeeding. I cannot recommend Joyce enough. I would advise everyone to have a doula no matter what type of labor you are planning. For most people, the doctors and nurses just won't give you the attention that you deserve during labor (it's just how the hospital system is). She will help you to advocate for yourself and understand everything that is going on. I could have been one of those moms who felt like an utter failure for not having the natural birth I "planned" (haha), but Joyce helped me feel safe and empowered throughout the birth.

-Amanda

February 11, 2020