Testimonial for Shamika Matos from Emiri Chan

Testimonial for Shamika Matos

Shamika was an amazing doula when I really needed it. The reason why I decided to get a doula was because I wasn't sure what to expect during labor, and I was concerned that I wouldn't know when I could advocate for other options, or when I would even have other options when it came time for labor. I also didn't want to put all of the burden of support on my husband, knowing it was his first time too. She was a great support person, yielding to my preferences but also giving me informed advice about different options for labor.

Before I went into labor, Shamika helped me create a birth plan and go over the different options. She also helped me produce colostrum that I brought to the hospital when my milk hadn't come in yet- the hospital told me that it was the largest collection that they had ever seen.

My labor was very quick, but she managed to come to the hospital at a crucial time. She was a great advocate during labor, and suggested many different things to help me feel comfortable. During one of Shamika's post partum visits, we were able to schedule an impromptu pediatrician visit at the same time and Shamika came as well, which was above and beyond what we expected. After birth, I had some complications and had to be hospitalized, and my mother in law had to come and take care of our baby. Shamika came during that time and helped my mother in law as well. Due to my complications, I really needed rest after I gave birth, and Shamika's overnight post partum support helped me heal and recover.

My advice is to get both the labor support and post partum overnight support. The first few weeks are so difficult, and it was so easy to feel overwhelmed and feel like you are doing things wrong. It was crucial for us to have someone like Shamika who can navigate through breastfeeding, look for things to talk about with your pediatrician, and be our emotional support person.

-Emiri Chan

August 06, 2024