Testimonial for Katie Gould
Our experience with Katie was mixed. As our birth doula, Katie was professional, supportive, forward-thinking, and attentive, capturing unforgettable moments during our baby boy's birth. However, the transition to postpartum care was challenging, eroding our trust. Concerns included her questioning our timing of contractions upon arrival at the hospital. Misalignments in postpartum availability and expectations led us to part ways.
Post-birth, Katie informed us she’d be unavailable for a week due to other commitments, leaving us without anticipated support as first-time parents. She offered text support and an in-person chat about five days into parenthood. But we needed immediate, comprehensive care, and her absence during this critical time was keenly felt, leading us to part ways. During attempts at good-faith communication to address these issues, Katie strictly adhered to contractual terms, overlooking the broader impact on our experience without fully acknowledging her role.
For those considering Katie, we recommend discussing these upfront:
Backups: Despite an early promise for a Zoom call with her backups, it never materialized. Determine if postpartum doula backups are part of the deal. Katie’s schedule couldn't accommodate us until a week after birth, and the lack of a backup network became apparent. Healthcare providers, including our delivery hospital, told us a week-long absence without a backup was alarming and not standard practice.
Timing: Establish a "care availability window” to ensure prompt postpartum support (or backup care).
Hours: We purchased too many hours initially and were unable to recoup losses. Start small and add hours as needed.
Had the transition been smoother, Katie could have been an adequate postpartum doula. Unfortunately, our experience was unnecessarily painful. We hope this helps guide your choices.
-J & J
May 29, 2024
Katie Gould
Sweet Beginnings Doula Srvcs & Portland Doula Love
Birth Fee: $1500 to $1800
Postpartum Rate: $45 to $60
