Testimonial for Elyse Pitock
I can't thank Elyse and Shelby more for all of their support. It's crazy, they didn't actually make it to my birth; I had an emergency C-section 8 hours after induction. I appreciated their prenatal support; we reviewed my birth plan (even though nothing went to plan), what to bring to the hospital, and addressed other worries. When I started having prelabor symptoms, I was relieved I could text them. They reassured me it wasn't the real thing yet, and offered coping techniques. My doctor began pressuring us to induce at 37 weeks, and they both validated our decision to not induce unless medically necessary or I was past my due date. We held off scheduling the induction until I was 40+6.
My son's birth and cicumstances were difficult and traumatic. My father-in-law was hospitalized 8 days before and died 2 weeks later. Having Elyse there to listen at postpartum visits was invaluable; she baked zucchini bread at one visit; sounds like a little thing but meant a lot as the unused veggies were taking up my mental space.
She also taught me how to use the Solly wrap. It took my postpartum brain a while to master, but is helping me to get my son to nap and give me some mental breaks during the day. In fact that is how I am able to be writing this testimonial right now.
I also experienced difficulty with breastfeeding as a result of C-section recovery and grief. Our country's healthcare system is the worst in connecting you with breastfeeding resources; Elyse helpeed me measure myself for pump phalanges, and navigate getting connected with a lactation consultant. Although iit is still challenging, we have come a long way and I have someone to reach out to with questions and to make sure I keep my supply up and can stay committed to breastfeeding.
Even though we didn't go through Sam's actual birth together, I feel that Elyse and Shelby were an integral part, and would recommend them to anyone looking for birth doulas.
-Heather Klein
August 07, 2023
Elyse Pitock
Elyse the Doula
Birth Fee: $2350 to $2500
Postpartum Rate: $50 to $60
