Testimonial for Cheryl Klugmann
Although I was working with a birth doula during my pregnancy, I wasn’t aware about postpartum doulas until a friend suggested that we work with one after our son was born because it was very helpful to her. I was just two months or so away from my due date when I did a brief Google search and found Cheryl‘s website. She used inclusive language which was important for me as a queer person. I wasn’t sure what to expect and only thought that I would need a few visits.
Right away I had a lot of challenges with breast-feeding and low milk supply and didn’t get the support that I needed from the hospital and lactation specialists. Cheryl was a godsend and thankfully our first visit was scheduled the same day that I woke up very engorged and in a lot of pain because I wasn’t able to pump properly, not knowing how to use my breast pump. As soon as Cheryl arrived we immediately felt comfortable with her; she has an ease and friendliness about her that is so welcoming. She was extremely helpful in educating us not only about breastfeeding and pumping but also about our son’s sleep patterns and ways in which we could help him to have a more consistent feeding and sleeping routine.
Probably most important to me was how empathetic and non-judgmental Cheryl was when I really struggled my first two weeks postpartum with intense “baby blues.” I was feeling a lot of guilt because I missed my old life and was so exhausted and hormonal that I was crying often. I also felt extreme stress about breast-feeding. Cheryl helped me to understand that my mental health was the most important thing and assured me that our son was well and healthy, regardless of how he was fed. She listened and offered so much support, affirmation and validation. I've already booked extra visits with her. I highly recommend Cheryl to any new parents! You won’t regret it.
-Dana LePage
November 11, 2021
Cheryl Klugmann
CD(DONA)PCD(DONA)Certified lactation specialist,
Birth Fee: $3000
Postpartum Rate: $60 to $75
