Testimonial for Austin Huston
I absolutely think Austin was essential in me getting my VBAC! I can't thank her enough. Here's how it all unfolded.
We moved to Washington, when I was six months pregnant, and I immediately started looking for a midwife and a Doula. I had planned a natural birth for my first baby, but was so devastated when it ended up in a C-section.
Because I was so frustrated with my first birth, it made me really focused to find a Doula that could support my goals for a VBAC. It took me several months to decide on a midwife, and I didn’t decide on a Doula until Dec 2nd. My due date was December 31.
I submitted my birth plan on December 6th and planned to meet the Birth Collective Doulas on December 13. Little did I know that my boy would come three weeks early on December 7th.
I started texting with Austin and she was super responsive, we decided to meet at the hospital because my labor was going fast. From the moment she walked into the room she got right to work. She helped ease my labor by setting me up with the tens unit. She also offered very encouraging words and was super comforting. Because my husband had to be in the lobby with our toddler, she swapped with him a few times.
It just seems so natural like she knew exactly what I needed, and was a step ahead, helping me get through transition and right up to pushing. She was exactly the balance I needed with the nurses, allowing me to have just those extra pushes in the tub. She was communicating with the nurses, and my husband in the lobby, while also being fully present for me. Right before my son came she swapped with my husband and stayed with my toddler in the lobby. My daughter was comfortable with her too, when she’s normally shy with strangers.
It was so empowering, and I am so blessed that Austin was able to support me with this birth. I’ll definitely hope to have her by my side if we get pregnant again!
-Elizabeth Vasseur
January 08, 2024
Austin Huston
Untethered Birth Doula Services
Birth Fee: $2000 to $2500
