Testimonial for Heather Karlson (DONA)
I figured since this was my second child, I thought I knew what to expect from labor. However, this time around, everything was completely different from my first birth. I was 37 1/2 weeks when my water broke in the middle of the night. Once at the hospital, my midwife informed me that since nothing was happening, I would either be sent home, or if admitted then probably started on pitocin. I wanted neither, so from that time on, Heather was in full doula mode! She had me bring my breast pump to the hospital and shortly after hooking myself up to it, I started with regular, hard contractions. We alternated with the breast pump and walking the hallways to get labor going and my contractions more regular. My husband and Heather took turns rubbing my back, walking the hallways with me and making me comfortable while I was in bed when I got tired. As labor progressed, Heather helped me through each and every contraction by having me squat and visualize the baby moving down. This visualization helped me to the very end. It was the only thing I would think of during the pain and got me through the contraction. Once in L/D, Heather suggested the shower to help with pain managment, and this is where I spent the majority of the time until it was time to push. Again, she worked with my husband to help me squat and get into positions that helped move the baby down all the time using the water to help with the pain. She got me in the most comfortable position to push and my daughter was out in 3 pushes!
I am so happy that I happenned to meet Heather and would completely recommend her doula services. She is patient, kind, non judgemental and extremely supportive. Such a wonderful person to have by your side during such an important moment in your life.
-Lisa Shah
February 08, 2013
Heather Karlson (DONA)
DoulaKarlson.com
Birth Fee: $1800
