Testimonial for Amber Matteson
Working with Amber for our third unmedicated birth was amazing. Her initial consultation was great to review/remind the birth basics. We hit it off well from a personality standpoint and I appreciated her positive attitude and humor. She was always responsive via text/phone when we needed her.
The morning I went into labor, we met Amber at the hospital. She helped us navigate the check in process and requested the hydro delivery room for my first water birth. Amber coached us how to use the tub and positions for pain relief. I would have been so nervous trying for a water delivery without her guidance and reassurance. We used intermittent monitoring and my contractions slowed during measurement. Not sure if it was performance anxiety but it felt like I wasn't making progress which stressed me out. Amber reassured me that we were on track. Her support was crucial to feel confident in my own ability to trust my body. When labor seemed stalled, the midwives suggested we rupture my membranes. My birth plan specified minimal interventions, but I was frustrated and wanted labor to progress. Amber provided support and was a sounding board for us but didn't pressure either way. I made the decision to do it.
My labor progressed quickly so it was intense. Amber helped provide motivation for each contraction. Her encouragement allowed me to trust myself and my body while pushing and delivery. She took photos and videos at my request, which I love. After delivery, my placenta didn't detach which resulted in an emergency extraction. Amber was by my side the whole time during a very stressful situation. She was our second set of hands, eyes, and ears to advocate for me, and ask and answer questions that we had. When that complication was resolved, she helped us pack up, move and settle into our recovery room. She followed up for a post partum visit. We are so grateful to have had her support and gotten to know Amber as a person!
-Jess R
August 14, 2021
Amber Matteson
Intimate Connections Doula & Perinatal Services
Birth Fee: $0 to $2500
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $55
