We had a great experience with Raya as our doula. We did not know much about doula’s prior to pregnancy. Originally did not think about having one, until we took a birth class and learned more about the benefits of having a doula. I decided about halfway through my pregnancy that I wanted to try an unmedicated birth, and after talking it over with my husband, we decided the best way of making that happen was having a doula present. Raya was recommended to us by a friend who is also a birth/postpartum doula. In our initial meeting, Raya was great and asked us about what we wanted for our birth and made sure we were comfortable with the labor process. Our son was due (and born) on Christmas Eve and it was huge to find someone who was willing to be with us during the busy holiday season. Raya was extremely attentive during labor - she answered my phone call at 4:30am and met us at the hospital when we were ready for her. Raya was professional when it come to communicating with my labor nurse - afterwards our nurse made the comment that she enjoyed having Raya around & even learned a few things from her. She also mentioned that not all doulas interact with hospital staff very well, so it made us even more appreciative for Raya. Raya was extremely helpful for me during labor, but even more so, she helped my husband feel confident in being the main support I needed at that time. She made suggestions to him, but was not overbearing with directions. After our experience, we highly recommend hiring a doula to our friends and I highly recommend Raya.
-Ashley Meehan
November 10, 2023
The Durham Doula
Birth Fee: $700 to $1250
Postpartum Rate: $25 to $40