Testimonial for Marcia Mattern, CD (DONA)
I planned to deliver at a birth center for my second pregnancy in hopes to achieve an unmedicated labor and delivery. My first baby was born in the hospital setting with an epidural and I knew that I wanted things to be different this time around.
We hired Marcia early in my third trimester and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made for me and my baby. My water unexpectedly broke at 32 weeks and 5 days-before I was even able to attend a birth class or have a home visit with Marcia. I was scared thinking that I was headed into another hospital birth just as unprepared as my previous birth.
From the moment Marcia arrived it felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. She dimmed the lights, turned on fake candles, and helped turn the hospital environment into a welcoming and calming space to birth in. She taught me how to breath through my contractions and remain in control of what my body was doing. Marcia encouraged me to continue when I felt like I couldn't anymore as soon as the next contraction came my body started pushing without any effort from me! I climbed into bed to push on my hands and knees. The OB kept telling me to flip onto my back to push and Marcia continued to encourage me to do what felt best for my body and push however I felt like I needed to. Without her there I don’t know if I would have been able to advocate for myself in such an intense situation! After about 3 minutes of pushing our daughter was born! She weighed 3lbs 9.9oz and did wonderfully for being born 7 weeks early. She and my husband went to the NICU and Marcia stayed with me during my recovery. In fact, she stayed by my side for several hours for my first trip to the NICU and finally back to my room on the postpartum unit to help make sure I got settled in okay. Marcia helped me to feel empowered and truly cared for throughout my labor and delivery. I undoubtedly owe having such a positive birth experience to Marcia.
-Sydney C.
March 12, 2023
Marcia Mattern, CD (DONA)
Your Doula Marcia Mattern
Birth Fee: $1700
