Testimonial for Sarah Fielding
Sarah is a powerhouse of knowledge when it comes to all things pregnancy and childbirth. She was my doula throughout my second pregnancy, and despite having done this before, I still had so many questions and checked in with her frequently. I highly recommend Sarah for anyone looking for a doula who can hold compassionate, informed space for her clients throughout their pregnancy and birth journey.
One example of a typical conversation I’ve had with Sarah involved whether or not I should do a cervical sweep at 39 weeks pregnant. She shared with me the soft signs of labor I should take note of prior to having a sweep done and asked who the provider I would be seeing (she is very familiar with the VCU midwives). She also asked me questions to help manage my expectations surrounding having a cervical sweep done such as “if the sweep does not result in full blown labor, will that be okay for you?”. I ultimately opted not to get the sweep after discussing things over with Sarah, as she helped remind me that one of my primary goals this pregnancy was to labor and deliver as much as possible on my own.
After my water broke, the first person I texted was Sarah. She guided me to call the midwives and get rest. When contractions started picking up that night and it was time to get to the hospital, Sarah showed up with her Mary Poppins bag of doula tools: a crock pot full of perineal magic juice (which she later stored in peri bottles for me to use), a heating pad (also magic), tea lights for ambiance, etc. During transition, she helped apply counter pressure to my lower back and gently prompted me to relax tension in my face. Her presence and gentle guidance reminded me that my body was capable of getting through each contraction without fear.
-Cecilia Portwood
February 22, 2024
Birth Fee: $1500 to $1700
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $45
