Testimonial for Amanda Hoyle, CD(DONA), CLC, CBE
I can't say enough about how much we loved Amanda. Her approach is so tailored to you/your partner and your personalities, and she is such a kind, funny, and encouraging person! For context, this was our first baby and we are in our 30s; we wanted help navigating the hospital staff/experience with a goal of unmedicated labor and use of evidence-based practice. She also helped before birth to find local chiro/acupuncture, use strategies to encourage on-time labor, think through BH and the “am I in labor yet”, and navigate a pre-eclampsia scare. Think of it like a crazy educated friend that just wants the best for you (what YOU want, not what she wants).
We had a great hospital experience, but it was still invaluable having Amanda as our advocate and friend. The small stuff like bringing tape to keep the automatic lights from turning on in the bathroom, knowing where to find a cup or food after hours, not to mention the big stuff like movement strategies in labor that helped us get through 19 hours of unmedicated labor/pushing and avoid a c-section for an OP presentation. She made sure I stayed hydrated, and helped us think through a few decisions we had to make during labor (making decisions in labor sucks, but we knew she understood our preferences and could help us make informed decisions). She also knew many of the hospital staff and had immediate rapport (INOVA Alex). Finally, she brought my husband into the process in a way that worked with our styles, enabling him to be my rock through the most humbling, intimate, and amazing experience we’ve ever had.
She works with mothers seeking all types of birth, but I don’t think I could have done unmedicated labor without the help of a doula, particularly Amanda. If you’re on the fence, set up an interview and meet her …then hire her :) You’ll be so happy you did.
-Emily
May 03, 2023
Amanda Hoyle, CD(DONA), CLC, CBE
Anchor & Calm
Birth Fee: $2200 to $2500
Postpartum Rate: $35 to $45
