Mary Jo was such a valuable resource for me during my pregnancy and delivery. My first birth experience ended in a c section. I wanted to avoid surgery the second time around. Mary Jo advised me and provided information for me to be successful. She answered all the questions I had and helped me to make the best decisions for me and my baby, and this was all before I had even hired her as my doula. I felt so comfortable with her advice, wealth of experience, and knowledge, I knew I wanted her support during my labor and delivery. Mary Jo met me at the hospital at 12am when I was in labor. She stayed with me until I delivered at 2pm the next day. She helped make me and my husband comfortable both physically and mentally during a long and difficult labor. Her presence never felt over bearing, more like an extra set of hands. The memory that sticks with me the most was during the delivery my son had a shoulder distocia. I had no idea what was going on and then suddenly there were doctors and nurses and people yelling "nicu". It felt like I was drowning or spinning out of control. I opened my eyes (probably at Mary Jo's insistence) and there she was, calm, reassuring, confident, right next to me. She felt like my anchor. She was able to get me focused again and I was able to safely deliver my 11lb 10oz son via VBAC. I know I would not have been successful without her guidance during my pregnancy and delivery.
I recommend Mary Jo without reservation, as a husband and a father. Due to Mary Jo, I have gone from not knowing what a “doula” is to not understanding why any couple would want to give birth without one.
Mary Jo did a great deal to ease my wife’s labor. Mary Jo also did a great deal to ease my experience of my wife’s labor. She also calmed both of us in the run-up to birth. Mary Jo was the seasoned vet ready to catch either my wife or me if we faltered, but remained unobtrusive in the experience being shared by my family. She didn’t supplant my central role as father and husband – rather, she provided experience and support that allowed me to fulfill and enjoy those roles more fully. These are things of inestimable value.
________________
SPECIAL THANKS TO THE BEST DOULA EVER!!!
Mary Jo played a crucial role in the birth of our son, Armin, on 3/12/15.
Before the birth, she provided literature, meditations, music, book recommendations, as well as excellent advice and overall birth knowledge. She was easily accessible by phone, email, and in person for questions. MaryJo gave advice during my early labor that saved me from unnecessary medical procedures and allowed me to labor at home for a greater time- which was one of my goals. She thought of EVERYTHING during the birth- candles around the bathtub, massage, oil, stretches to facilitate pelvic opening, suggestions for my husband on how to provide support, dimming the lights, assistance with my baby's initial breastfeeding latch, extra blankets and towels, verbal encouragement and love... just to name a few! All the doctors and nurses at St. Mary's knew her and were SO excited to work with us! I can't begin to imagine my birth experience without Mary Jo, and will recommend her to all my friends and family. She demonstrated the immense value of having a doula... which I don't think I even realized until the time came! I will definitely be calling her for the birth of our second child when the times comes! THANKS MARY JO- IAN, ARMIN AND I LOVE YOU!
_____________
My husband and I wanted a natural birth and a doula to support us in the process. In our initial meeting, it was clear that Rachael shared our birth philosophy and deeply appreciated the challenges and beauty of natural birth. We also liked that she is a yoga teacher and has a strong knowledge of prenatal exercises and labor positions. Above all, she exuded warmth, gentleness, and a quiet confidence.
One benefit of working with Rachael was the chance to attend her prenatal yoga class, which also let me get to know her in the months leading up to delivery. Rachael was always interested in how my pregnancy was going. She was a fantastic resource for pregnancy/birth information, and passed along websites, books, and other materials.
Our baby arrived 10 days late and in a whirlwind fashion. Rachael had a very calming presence during an intense and rapid labor. She offered several comfort/coping tools, such as essential oils and cool washcloths. Because labor was progressing very quickly, the experience was rather confusing—we had expected a much longer and gradual labor. It was very helpful to have Rachael present and to have her guidance. We arrived at the hospital just in time—I was fully dilated and ready to push. Pushing took over an hour, and Rachael reminded me to drink water and offered encouragement throughout the difficult work. She anticipated my needs and worked as a great support to my husband—they made a wonderful coaching team. We were able to have the natural birth experience that we had hoped for.
We highly recommend Rachael as a birth doula. She has strong experience and training in the natural birth process, and an innate gentleness, calmness, and warmth. She strikes an ideal balance between professionalism and a personal touch, and exhibits a great sense of humor, attention to detail, and dedication. We could not be happier to have had her play such an important role in our daughter’s birth story.
________________
Mary Jo was the ultimate calming force during my labor and delivery. I attended her prenatal yoga classes for 6 months leading up to my delivery so I felt like we have a good relationship established, and I knew I felt very comfortable (and comforted) around her. Her yoga classes were paramount in my ability to calm my mind and relax my body - and her guidance through my labor and delivery helped me achieve my desire to have a natural birth, and do so in as relaxed a state as possible.
Upon first arriving at the hospital, and after receiving a bag of antibiotics (I tested positive for the Group B strep test), Mary Jo got my husband and me on the move. I changed into my own gown/robe and we took off to walk around the hospital. We checked in several times with the nurses/doc, but otherwise stayed on the move. Lunged up and down some stairs and just kept walking. Mary Jo was very helpful during contractions - both helping with massage and pressure points, encouraging my breathing habits, reminding me to relax certain parts of my body, and also guiding my husband to help me. Due to the positioning of baby's head, she and the nurse assisted in some movements to help improve its positioning. Mary Jo also helped me find new and different positions to help me cope with the contractions. While I'd read books, taken Mary Jo's birthing class, and otherwise educated myself as much as possible on coping strategies, etc., I think it all went out of my brain during labor/delivery. I was in such a zone during each of my contractions that I had no room in my brain to think of different positions, better movements, breathing techniques, etc. We absolutely would not have had the wonderful experience we did, had it not been for Mary Jo's guidance.
_________________
I met Rachael at a "meet the doulas" event that richmond doulas put on. After a short meeting over coffee/tea, I knew that Rachael would not only be a great fit as a doula, but a friend as well. We were new to the area and my husband was out of town for 2 months. She was always available, met me for coffee just because, and contacted me regularly in the last few weeks to check in.
I had experienced prodromal labor for about 3 weeks. At my midwife appointment at 39 weeks, they said my water hadn't broken, but that I was already 5cm dilated and 80% effaced! I was already half way there! I was told to go home and pack. The midwives thought I would go into labor that night. I let Rachael know and we both napped just in case. When I was still pregnant Friday, I did some yoga poses and accupressure that Rachael suggested just incase the baby was in a bad position and needed to flip. By the afternoon, the contractions were 5 min apart and regular. Rachael suggested we call the midwife who advised us to wait an hour to see if they became more painful. Twenty minutes later, they were finally getting stronger!
Rachael met us at the hospital right as we were being wheeled into the room. I labored in the tub for about 3 hours. Rachael was there to remind me to drink, used aromatherapy when I was feeling nauseous, and rubbed by back when it cramped up. She provided the confident, quiet support that I needed and never overstepped her boundaries. When I thought I couldn't go any longer, she reminded me that I could. She was never in the way, and helped support my husband in supporting me. Ultimately I was able to have the beautiful natural birth I had desired.
Many things played into this, but I firmly believe that hiring Rachael as our doula was one of the smartest things we could do. You can never get too much support during this time of your life, before and after. I highly recommend Rachael to anyone interested in having a beautiful birthing experience!
_____________
Mary Jo is incredible! She guided me through pregnancy, sending me helpful articles and giving advice as well as teaching my prenatal yoga class. She was sure to take care of momma and baby, both our body and soul.
She was my advocate in the hospital, asking for amenities that I would not have known existed. I literally could not have labored without her. When my husband called at 1am, she was there within minutes, and took charge. She got me out of bed, moving around, and helped me carry out the techniques for pain management that we'd practiced (good thing, too, as the Bradley method/relaxation techniques did NOT work for me. I had to get up and MOVE!). She drew a warm bath and created a nice, relaxing ambiance for me with low light and music. I literally fell asleep between contractions! She was my encourager, my motivator when I was at my low points (that is, screaming, "i don't think i can do this!"). I was doubtful of my ability to have a natural, drug-free labor but I DID IT. I largely credit Mary Jo. My labor & delivery is an experience I will remember forever. I think of it often with awe and wonder.
It's definitely important to find a doula that you mesh with personally. They are going to see you at your most vulnuerable and be with you through the most transformative experience of your life. Yes, they are and should be professional, but I think it's important to have a a personal connection with them as well.
_______________
My partner and I were looking to hire a doula as a means of extra support during our childbirth. We had planned a natural labor and were looking for an experienced guide, considering this was our first child. Rachael was the first doula we met, and we both knew she was the perfect one right away. Her bubbly, yet laid back personality really clicked with ours.
Rachael was always available for any questions and concerns either my partner or myself had. Email, text, or call, she always got back to us right away. She passed along some of her knowledge about rebozo techniques as well as homeopathic remedies in order to make my pregnancy as easy and delightful as possible. She was always asking for updates and seemed just as excited as we were about my progress! When it came time to labor, Rachael came to the rescue almost immediately after we called her. We had planned on a natural birth, but unfortunately had to induce due to minor complications, which led to an epidural and ended with a little help from the dreaded forceps.
My birth was very long and intense for both my partner and myself. Rachael was awesome throughout the whole thing, and anticipated all my needs. She provided me with positive affirmations, applied chapstick to my lips, oils and washcloths to my face and neck, and reminded me to eat and drink as much as I could. She took everything that went wrong in stride, and did an incredible job reminding me how strong I am and gave me the confidence I needed to push through it all. She was excellent at giving guidance to my partner with ways to encourage me as well. Having anticipated a natural birth, we both really hit a wall emotionally when it came time to choose between forceps or a c-section. We honestly wouldn't have been able to make a decision without her warm, kind words lifting us up. It was a very scary moment, but we got through it and made the right choice with her encouragement.
Rachael was the guiding light we both needed to make my labor the best it could be. She was absolutely wonderful at meeting both my needs as well as my partner's. I couldn't have asked for anything better from her. Having Rachael there for such an intimate and life changing experience has really made her feel like part of the family. I am already excited at the thought of having her around for our second!
_____________
I met Rachael at an event for the VCU Midwives about six weeks before our due date. We instantly hit it off, as she is so warm and inviting and a very active listener. I am also familiar with the organization through which she received her training, and know of their high standards. Rachael met with us at our home, and discussed our wants and concerns about our birth experience. She asked great questions, and was very supportive of our needs making it easy for us to choose her to be our doula.
Rachael made regular contact with us to check in our our progress, and met with us again in person where she offered us a wonderful guide for my husband that she had created that outlined ways that he could be helpful throughout the labor process.
When we did (finally!) go into labor, Rachael came to our house and worked with me, using a number of comfort measures to help guide me through the contractions. Rachael was so very encouraging and strong; I felt safe and capable. We went to the hospital when i felt ready, only to have my contractions pretty much stop altogether. We were sent back home to sleep and rest up, and even though I felt very discouraged, Rachael helped me to keep positive.
My water broke the next afternoon, and Rachael met us at the hospital and was an incredible presence and support throughout my entire labor, which all in all turned out to be 36 hours (including the previous day's adventures). She employed a variety of techniques to help me through my contractions, and maintained a wonderful attitude. Rachael was very knowledgable and was quick to recognize what I needed at different stages throughout my labor. We successfully delievered our 9 lb. 9 oz. son vaginally early the next morning. I know both my husband and I feel that Rachael was an indispensible part of our birth experience, and would highly recommend her to any expecting parents.
_________________
I had been taking Mary Jo's prenatal yoga class throughout my pregnancy so when it came time to pick a doula I didn't even bother looking anywhere else. At our first meeting, my husband and I met Rachel as well and we knew that we would be in great hands on delivery day no matter what.
I had wanted a natural, drug-free birth and I knew that the longer I could stay at home the better my odds of that would be, but at 36 weeks I found out I would have to go to the hospital as soon as my water broke even if I wasn't in active labor. Mary Jo helped to keep me calm and positive in the weeks leading up to my daughter's arrival.
Of course my water DID break while I was hardly in labor at all. I called Mary Jo and she met us at the hospital right away. Even though it wasn't my original plan, my husband and I were immediately comforted by how familiar and friendly she was with the hospital staff. She kept us walking throughout the hospital, which helped labor progress. Rachel came and took over for a while and kept us walking some more. The two were an excellent tag team and seamlessly helped us throughout the day.
When labor started to get intense, they kept me focused and showed my husband the best ways to help me. With their help, labor became one of the greatest bonding experiences my husband and I have ever had. When I said I didn't know if I could do it anymore, everyone around me simply said, "Yes you can." Their calm demeanor and belief in me and my body kept any fear I had away and gave me the strength I needed to bring my daughter into the world exactly the way I wanted to. I could not be any happier with my birth experience.
We are eternally grateful to both Mary Jo and Rachel for keeping me and our baby safe, healthy and happy.
I became interested in hiring a doula when I was a little over half way through my first pregnancy. I spoke with and interviewed a few different ladies before choosing Rachael. Rachael's knowledge of yoga, aromatherapy, and massage immediately made her stand out to me and my partner. After hiring her, Rachael was very involved and helpful with any questions or concerns that came up. She familiarized herself with the birth plan that we decided on and even offered prenatal classes, rebozo techniques, etc. to prepare us for the remainder of the pregnancy and birth of our daughter in a natural way. When labor started, Rachael was there every step of the way. Things didn't go as planned. My baby was posterior and my birth plan changed at the last minute. I was disappointed that I was going to have to make the nessesary changes, but Rachael comforted and supported us every step of the way. Her presence was never too much or too little. Everything we needed was handled beautifully and her loving, caring, supportive nature helped give me the confidence to push my baby out.
Looking back, hiring Rachael was one of the best choices I could have made. I would definately recomend her to others, especially if you have an appreciation for a natural, holistic lifestyle. If and when I am ready for my second child, Rachael will be one if the first to know!
I recommend Mary Jo without reservation, as a husband and a father. Due to Mary Jo, I have gone from not knowing what a “doula” is to not understanding why any couple would want to give birth without one.
Mary Jo did a great deal to ease my wife’s labor. Mary Jo also did a great deal to ease my experience of my wife’s labor. She also calmed both of us in the run-up to birth. Mary Jo was the seasoned vet ready to catch either my wife or me if we faltered, but remained unobtrusive in the experience being shared by my family. She didn’t supplant my central role as father and husband – rather, she provided experience and support that allowed me to fulfill and enjoy those roles more fully. These are things of inestimable value.
________________
SPECIAL THANKS TO THE BEST DOULA EVER!!!
Mary Jo played a crucial role in the birth of our son, Armin, on 3/12/15.
Before the birth, she provided literature, meditations, music, book recommendations, as well as excellent advice and overall birth knowledge. She was easily accessible by phone, email, and in person for questions. MaryJo gave advice during my early labor that saved me from unnecessary medical procedures and allowed me to labor at home for a greater time- which was one of my goals. She thought of EVERYTHING during the birth- candles around the bathtub, massage, oil, stretches to facilitate pelvic opening, suggestions for my husband on how to provide support, dimming the lights, assistance with my baby's initial breastfeeding latch, extra blankets and towels, verbal encouragement and love... just to name a few! All the doctors and nurses at St. Mary's knew her and were SO excited to work with us! I can't begin to imagine my birth experience without Mary Jo, and will recommend her to all my friends and family. She demonstrated the immense value of having a doula... which I don't think I even realized until the time came! I will definitely be calling her for the birth of our second child when the times comes! THANKS MARY JO- IAN, ARMIN AND I LOVE YOU!
_____________
My husband and I wanted a natural birth and a doula to support us in the process. In our initial meeting, it was clear that Rachael shared our birth philosophy and deeply appreciated the challenges and beauty of natural birth. We also liked that she is a yoga teacher and has a strong knowledge of prenatal exercises and labor positions. Above all, she exuded warmth, gentleness, and a quiet confidence.
One benefit of working with Rachael was the chance to attend her prenatal yoga class, which also let me get to know her in the months leading up to delivery. Rachael was always interested in how my pregnancy was going. She was a fantastic resource for pregnancy/birth information, and passed along websites, books, and other materials.
Our baby arrived 10 days late and in a whirlwind fashion. Rachael had a very calming presence during an intense and rapid labor. She offered several comfort/coping tools, such as essential oils and cool washcloths. Because labor was progressing very quickly, the experience was rather confusing—we had expected a much longer and gradual labor. It was very helpful to have Rachael present and to have her guidance. We arrived at the hospital just in time—I was fully dilated and ready to push. Pushing took over an hour, and Rachael reminded me to drink water and offered encouragement throughout the difficult work. She anticipated my needs and worked as a great support to my husband—they made a wonderful coaching team. We were able to have the natural birth experience that we had hoped for.
We highly recommend Rachael as a birth doula. She has strong experience and training in the natural birth process, and an innate gentleness, calmness, and warmth. She strikes an ideal balance between professionalism and a personal touch, and exhibits a great sense of humor, attention to detail, and dedication. We could not be happier to have had her play such an important role in our daughter’s birth story.
________________
Mary Jo was the ultimate calming force during my labor and delivery. I attended her prenatal yoga classes for 6 months leading up to my delivery so I felt like we have a good relationship established, and I knew I felt very comfortable (and comforted) around her. Her yoga classes were paramount in my ability to calm my mind and relax my body - and her guidance through my labor and delivery helped me achieve my desire to have a natural birth, and do so in as relaxed a state as possible.
Upon first arriving at the hospital, and after receiving a bag of antibiotics (I tested positive for the Group B strep test), Mary Jo got my husband and me on the move. I changed into my own gown/robe and we took off to walk around the hospital. We checked in several times with the nurses/doc, but otherwise stayed on the move. Lunged up and down some stairs and just kept walking. Mary Jo was very helpful during contractions - both helping with massage and pressure points, encouraging my breathing habits, reminding me to relax certain parts of my body, and also guiding my husband to help me. Due to the positioning of baby's head, she and the nurse assisted in some movements to help improve its positioning. Mary Jo also helped me find new and different positions to help me cope with the contractions. While I'd read books, taken Mary Jo's birthing class, and otherwise educated myself as much as possible on coping strategies, etc., I think it all went out of my brain during labor/delivery. I was in such a zone during each of my contractions that I had no room in my brain to think of different positions, better movements, breathing techniques, etc. We absolutely would not have had the wonderful experience we did, had it not been for Mary Jo's guidance.
_________________
I met Rachael at a "meet the doulas" event that richmond doulas put on. After a short meeting over coffee/tea, I knew that Rachael would not only be a great fit as a doula, but a friend as well. We were new to the area and my husband was out of town for 2 months. She was always available, met me for coffee just because, and contacted me regularly in the last few weeks to check in.
I had experienced prodromal labor for about 3 weeks. At my midwife appointment at 39 weeks, they said my water hadn't broken, but that I was already 5cm dilated and 80% effaced! I was already half way there! I was told to go home and pack. The midwives thought I would go into labor that night. I let Rachael know and we both napped just in case. When I was still pregnant Friday, I did some yoga poses and accupressure that Rachael suggested just incase the baby was in a bad position and needed to flip. By the afternoon, the contractions were 5 min apart and regular. Rachael suggested we call the midwife who advised us to wait an hour to see if they became more painful. Twenty minutes later, they were finally getting stronger!
Rachael met us at the hospital right as we were being wheeled into the room. I labored in the tub for about 3 hours. Rachael was there to remind me to drink, used aromatherapy when I was feeling nauseous, and rubbed by back when it cramped up. She provided the confident, quiet support that I needed and never overstepped her boundaries. When I thought I couldn't go any longer, she reminded me that I could. She was never in the way, and helped support my husband in supporting me. Ultimately I was able to have the beautiful natural birth I had desired.
Many things played into this, but I firmly believe that hiring Rachael as our doula was one of the smartest things we could do. You can never get too much support during this time of your life, before and after. I highly recommend Rachael to anyone interested in having a beautiful birthing experience!
_____________
Mary Jo is incredible! She guided me through pregnancy, sending me helpful articles and giving advice as well as teaching my prenatal yoga class. She was sure to take care of momma and baby, both our body and soul.
She was my advocate in the hospital, asking for amenities that I would not have known existed. I literally could not have labored without her. When my husband called at 1am, she was there within minutes, and took charge. She got me out of bed, moving around, and helped me carry out the techniques for pain management that we'd practiced (good thing, too, as the Bradley method/relaxation techniques did NOT work for me. I had to get up and MOVE!). She drew a warm bath and created a nice, relaxing ambiance for me with low light and music. I literally fell asleep between contractions! She was my encourager, my motivator when I was at my low points (that is, screaming, "i don't think i can do this!"). I was doubtful of my ability to have a natural, drug-free labor but I DID IT. I largely credit Mary Jo. My labor & delivery is an experience I will remember forever. I think of it often with awe and wonder.
It's definitely important to find a doula that you mesh with personally. They are going to see you at your most vulnuerable and be with you through the most transformative experience of your life. Yes, they are and should be professional, but I think it's important to have a a personal connection with them as well.
_______________
My partner and I were looking to hire a doula as a means of extra support during our childbirth. We had planned a natural labor and were looking for an experienced guide, considering this was our first child. Rachael was the first doula we met, and we both knew she was the perfect one right away. Her bubbly, yet laid back personality really clicked with ours.
Rachael was always available for any questions and concerns either my partner or myself had. Email, text, or call, she always got back to us right away. She passed along some of her knowledge about rebozo techniques as well as homeopathic remedies in order to make my pregnancy as easy and delightful as possible. She was always asking for updates and seemed just as excited as we were about my progress! When it came time to labor, Rachael came to the rescue almost immediately after we called her. We had planned on a natural birth, but unfortunately had to induce due to minor complications, which led to an epidural and ended with a little help from the dreaded forceps.
My birth was very long and intense for both my partner and myself. Rachael was awesome throughout the whole thing, and anticipated all my needs. She provided me with positive affirmations, applied chapstick to my lips, oils and washcloths to my face and neck, and reminded me to eat and drink as much as I could. She took everything that went wrong in stride, and did an incredible job reminding me how strong I am and gave me the confidence I needed to push through it all. She was excellent at giving guidance to my partner with ways to encourage me as well. Having anticipated a natural birth, we both really hit a wall emotionally when it came time to choose between forceps or a c-section. We honestly wouldn't have been able to make a decision without her warm, kind words lifting us up. It was a very scary moment, but we got through it and made the right choice with her encouragement.
Rachael was the guiding light we both needed to make my labor the best it could be. She was absolutely wonderful at meeting both my needs as well as my partner's. I couldn't have asked for anything better from her. Having Rachael there for such an intimate and life changing experience has really made her feel like part of the family. I am already excited at the thought of having her around for our second!
_____________
I met Rachael at an event for the VCU Midwives about six weeks before our due date. We instantly hit it off, as she is so warm and inviting and a very active listener. I am also familiar with the organization through which she received her training, and know of their high standards. Rachael met with us at our home, and discussed our wants and concerns about our birth experience. She asked great questions, and was very supportive of our needs making it easy for us to choose her to be our doula.
Rachael made regular contact with us to check in our our progress, and met with us again in person where she offered us a wonderful guide for my husband that she had created that outlined ways that he could be helpful throughout the labor process.
When we did (finally!) go into labor, Rachael came to our house and worked with me, using a number of comfort measures to help guide me through the contractions. Rachael was so very encouraging and strong; I felt safe and capable. We went to the hospital when i felt ready, only to have my contractions pretty much stop altogether. We were sent back home to sleep and rest up, and even though I felt very discouraged, Rachael helped me to keep positive.
My water broke the next afternoon, and Rachael met us at the hospital and was an incredible presence and support throughout my entire labor, which all in all turned out to be 36 hours (including the previous day's adventures). She employed a variety of techniques to help me through my contractions, and maintained a wonderful attitude. Rachael was very knowledgable and was quick to recognize what I needed at different stages throughout my labor. We successfully delievered our 9 lb. 9 oz. son vaginally early the next morning. I know both my husband and I feel that Rachael was an indispensible part of our birth experience, and would highly recommend her to any expecting parents.
_________________
I had been taking Mary Jo's prenatal yoga class throughout my pregnancy so when it came time to pick a doula I didn't even bother looking anywhere else. At our first meeting, my husband and I met Rachel as well and we knew that we would be in great hands on delivery day no matter what.
I had wanted a natural, drug-free birth and I knew that the longer I could stay at home the better my odds of that would be, but at 36 weeks I found out I would have to go to the hospital as soon as my water broke even if I wasn't in active labor. Mary Jo helped to keep me calm and positive in the weeks leading up to my daughter's arrival.
Of course my water DID break while I was hardly in labor at all. I called Mary Jo and she met us at the hospital right away. Even though it wasn't my original plan, my husband and I were immediately comforted by how familiar and friendly she was with the hospital staff. She kept us walking throughout the hospital, which helped labor progress. Rachel came and took over for a while and kept us walking some more. The two were an excellent tag team and seamlessly helped us throughout the day.
When labor started to get intense, they kept me focused and showed my husband the best ways to help me. With their help, labor became one of the greatest bonding experiences my husband and I have ever had. When I said I didn't know if I could do it anymore, everyone around me simply said, "Yes you can." Their calm demeanor and belief in me and my body kept any fear I had away and gave me the strength I needed to bring my daughter into the world exactly the way I wanted to. I could not be any happier with my birth experience.
We are eternally grateful to both Mary Jo and Rachel for keeping me and our baby safe, healthy and happy.
I became interested in hiring a doula when I was a little over half way through my first pregnancy. I spoke with and interviewed a few different ladies before choosing Rachael. Rachael's knowledge of yoga, aromatherapy, and massage immediately made her stand out to me and my partner. After hiring her, Rachael was very involved and helpful with any questions or concerns that came up. She familiarized herself with the birth plan that we decided on and even offered prenatal classes, rebozo techniques, etc. to prepare us for the remainder of the pregnancy and birth of our daughter in a natural way. When labor started, Rachael was there every step of the way. Things didn't go as planned. My baby was posterior and my birth plan changed at the last minute. I was disappointed that I was going to have to make the nessesary changes, but Rachael comforted and supported us every step of the way. Her presence was never too much or too little. Everything we needed was handled beautifully and her loving, caring, supportive nature helped give me the confidence to push my baby out.
Looking back, hiring Rachael was one of the best choices I could have made. I would definately recomend her to others, especially if you have an appreciation for a natural, holistic lifestyle. If and when I am ready for my second child, Rachael will be one if the first to know!
