Testimonial for Polly Hamui/ Nahmad
Polly has accompanied me for the birth of my two daughters, and was by far one of the best supports for both experiences. I knew Polly was the right doula for me from the moment she said hello on our Zoom interview (COVID times!). She was so warm and caring, like an old friend or family member. I stayed in regular touch with Polly throughout my pregnanices, and she was always happy to offer advise for the different challenges I might encounter, from heartburn to pelvic pain. As birth approached, she offered many holistic approaches to help encourage labour to begin.
In my first hospital birth, Polly's support helped me to labour at home for much longer than I would have alone. I could trust that she would know when it was a good time to move to the hospital, and meanwhile she suggested many pain coping techniques including a TENS machine, aromatherapy, a shower, different movements, etc. Her guidance is gentle, not overly directive, allowing you to choose what feels right for your body. In the hospital her support helped me to continue birthing without medications (despite me initial hesitancy!)
Knowing that Polly could accompany me for my second birth was a key influence in my decision to have a homebirth with my second child. Again, she was invaluable. She guided me through very specific positions that encouraged labour to progress efficiently at each stage we were in (and had shared with me the progression of positions prior to birth which helped me understand the purpose of different movements in relation to opening the pelvis and facilitating the baby's natural rotation). Additionally, her kind, warm presence was so calming.
While a doula is a significant investment, it is such a relief to approach birth knowing that person will be by your side throughout (whereas nurses, OBs and midwives may face shift changes). While my husband was hesitant, he was the first to say that having Polly there was so worth it!
-Nicole
February 24, 2022
Polly Hamui/ Nahmad
Pollythedoula
Birth Fee: $1800 to $2000
