Testimonial for Laura DePasquale, CD(DONA)
I had my first baby in June 2020, and I’m so glad I had Laura as my doula! My husband and I met her when we took her natural childbirth course, and it was obvious she has a true passion for her work, and tons of knowledge and experience. I was extremely nervous about labor and delivery, but taking Laura’s class helped me feel as prepared as possible.
The pandemic hit during my third trimester, and I started to question what my birth experience would look like. I wanted an unmedicated birth with as few interventions as possible, and I ultimately decided to have my daughter at the birthing center because of all the new restrictions in place at the hospital.
While in labor, I started to get nervous about how much more intense the pain would become, and I wondered if maybe I should go to the hospital and have an epidural. I mentioned my concern to Laura on the phone. She is supportive of whatever route you decide to take, but she helped encourage me to stick to the original plan I truly wanted.
Laura came to my hotel room and helped me with labor techniques to keep things moving along. She coordinated with the midwives so I didn’t have to worry about the logistics of everyone getting to the birthing center at the right time. It was amazing how she pinpointed the exact contraction that told her it was time to head to the birthing center. I showed up there at 9 centimeters and ready to get immediately in the tub and push! During the pushing stage, I kept thinking specifically about Laura’s lesson from class on how pushing works, and that knowledge I'd gained from her helped me keep going in the moment.
Much of what kept me calm during labor was knowing I was in good hands, surrounded by an amazing team of competent people I trusted. I'm so thankful I can look back on the birth of my first child as a positive and empowering event, and I'm grateful for Laura and the important role she played in the experience.
-Allison
January 02, 2021
Laura DePasquale, CD(DONA)
Holistic Beginnings,LLC
Birth Fee: $1200 to $2400
Postpartum Rate: $50 to $60
