Testimonial for Evana Cooper, BA, CD AMANI
#1 Doula!!! Evana joined my birth team towards the very end of my pregnancy. She came into the group with the understanding that my husband and I wanted to protect our right to a natural home birth as much as possible. A hospital trip during labor was only to happen if and when we said it was necessary. After a successful early labor one morning in my 42nd week; my water finally broke, contractions were coming closer together and I was about fully dilated. It looked like we had it in the bag!
Unfortunately, my labor progress continued to stall over the remainder of that day and overnight. We had promising moments when contractions would speed back up, but by morning we knew it was time the get some help. Evana helped explain to us some of our options and what to expect at the hospital. Once checked in and settled, Evana stayed with us the entire time while my body prepared to push again with Pitocin and an epidural. We had issues with the baby's heart rate staying level so I was put on-off-and-back on Pitocin the see how it affected things. During this time Evana calmly explained to me and my family what was happening and also what could happen if the contractions did not pick up again.
Luckily, we got going and I was able to finally push again. With some struggles we got the baby out vaginally. That was when we discovered I had been fighting a short umbilical chord the entire time and it tore moments before birth. The chord also grew irregularly from the membrane of the placenta which lead to further issues for baby and placenta removal. These things were handled by hospital staff quickly, however, this scenario at home could have ended very differently.
Evana never left our sides and remained a pillar of strength, a wealth of knowledge and a calming energy for myself and my family during this scary experience. We are so grateful for her and pray everyone has a doula like Evana in their corner!!
-Megan Ward
February 06, 2024
Evana Cooper, BA, CD AMANI
EvanaBirths
Birth Fee: $1800 to $2400
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $50
