Testimonial for Tahira Ali, Student Midwife, CLE, CD
When my husband and I were interviewing doulas, two things about Tahira really stood out to us. (1) She was a self-professed "birth nerd" who constantly sought new research, and (2) even in that first interview, she made an effort to get to know us. I can take some time to open up to new people, so I really needed Tahira to do the relationship-building, and she did that really well, encouraging me open up and talk through my hopes and fears. She provided guidance that spanned the spectrum from strictly ACOG-approved to more traditional/alternative practices, and we felt free to take what made sense for us. We went into the birth trusting that she understood our values and wishes.
I had an unexpectedly rapid labor, so that by the time we called Tahira and she arrived, I was already 8 cm. It was still invaluable to have her encouragement and guidance, and her essential oils - her peppermint really did help me calm and focus even in active labor! She also was incredible at advocating for us to the hospital staff - I remember her calmly but firmly (and repeatedly) reminding them of our birth wishes, and when there was some irregularity, she discussed with the doctor and helped explain to me what was going on. She also got some pictures of the moments after birth that I will cherish.
Finally, Tahira came over a few days postpartum, and for me, this was actually when I needed her most. Although I had supportive family with me, she was able to talk me through my hormonal haze and helping my family figure out how to support me best. It was just supposed to be a "check in" but when she saw I was having a hard time, she stayed almost two hours to make sure that I was OK. This was just the final example of the way Tahira was pro-active in finding ways to support us in the ways we needed, even if we couldn't articulate it ourselves, and I feel so grateful that she was part of our journey.
-Ye Dam A
August 08, 2022
Tahira Ali, Student Midwife, CLE, CD
Black Nova Doula
Birth Fee: $3500 to $5000
Postpartum Rate: $60 to $75
