Testimonial for Stephanie Sauer Pasternak, CD(DONA), CLC
I just had my first baby and am SO glad I had a doula and especially thankful that my doula was Stephanie.
The only things I wished for in childbirth were not to get torn up too badly, and avoiding a C section because I was terrified of the recovery as much as I was of birthing. My wonderful husband didn’t know how he could support me better either.
Luckily Stephanie provided the help we needed and more. She’s down-to-earth, funny but most importantly so genuinely caring, non-judgemental and warm. Compared to some other doulas I spoke with, I appreciated that she was highly experienced, an IBCLC and more assertive with her evidence-based advice so I felt confident she would help me advocate for myself at the hospital too.
And I couldn’t have asked for a more ideal birth - healthy baby and no injuries!!! I believe that preparation and luck were both key. Most critically, Stephanie stopped me from going to the hospital too early and gave me strength when I didn’t think I had any left. She stayed by my side the whole time at the hospital, held my hand and even held me in labour, and didn’t leave until she saw I was breastfeeding correctly.
Unlike the paediatrician and our OB, she also has practical advice for baby care and nursing which has given us some of our sleep and life back. The woman doesn’t stop giving!
Stephanie had such an important and memorable role in our daughter’s safe arrival into this world - thank you Stephanie, our little family couldn’t have done it without you!! ????
-Janet
August 19, 2023
Stephanie Sauer Pasternak, CD(DONA), CLC
Bergen Doula - Birth Doula & Lactation Counseling
Birth Fee: $1950 to $3500
