I spent most of my pregnancy expecting labor and delivery to be a miserable day or two that I would just have to get through in order to meet our baby. Having a number of friends and family who have had long unproductive labors, most of the information I was getting focused on the negative aspects of the process. Yet at the same time I was reading about the joy and wonder of a positive birthing experience. I began to realize I could and should expect more when it came to delivering our daughter and that a doula could help me get there. Melinda was recommended to us and we liked her immediately. She spent hours with us prior to my due date addressing our desires, fears, concerns and goals. She understood the birth experience I wanted and guided us through my labor with a perfect balance of encouragement and support. Melinda helped with general and specific decisions along the way including when to go to the hospital, tips for coping with pain, and the pros and cons of suggested interventions. She was with us throughout labor and completely involved with the birth, providing breaks for my husband and continued support for me. When my daughter was finally born I was elated. I was amazed at the joy of the entire experience and would not have had that without Melinda’s help. Her postpartum support was equally valuable, from follow up visits to check in calls to help with breastfeeding. Melinda made the difference for us and I highly recommend her services.
-Patricia Kelley
November 30, 2009
Calm and Confident Doula Care, LLC
Birth Fee: $2800 to $3600
