Jessica was an excellent doula for the birth of our daughter. Early on, my wife decided to attempt a natural childbirth and with no family in the area, we wanted to have a presence in the delivery room that would allow me, as the birth coach, to provide the best support I could. As a first time dad, it was slightly intimidating to be the primary support person for my wife during the childbirth, although we did not want a doula that would make my presence redundant. Jessica was the perfect choice for our birth, and she definitely enriched our experience.
From the beginning, Jessica made herself available to meet in person and answer all of our questions. We were in constant communication as the due date got closer, and when my wife went into labor, Jessica arrived at the hospital within an hour of our admittance and stayed there the entire night with us.
Throughout the labor process, Jessica’s demeanor was laid back and calming, and she offered useful recommendations (birth ball, music, candles) that aided in my wife’s comfort and worked seamlessly with the labor. She tailored her involvement in the process to how the labor was progressing and my confidence level with different techniques (breathing, helping the wife with squatting, etc.). We were also impressed with how helpful she was with the small things and Jessica’s attention to detail really made it a comfortable environment for my wife. Near the end, when it became a bit more intense, Jessica made some very effective recommendations for my wife’s birth position.
Overall, having Jessica as our doula gave me the confidence to support my wife and provide her with a positive childbirth experience.
-Ryan Gocong
Jessica was a perfect choice for assisting in the birth of our first baby, Macy. Her calm, professional, supportive and knowledgeable demeanor were absolutely essential to the success of my plan for a natural, unmedicated birth. Her presence was just the right amount - not too much but not just background noise either. I can positively say that I would not have the positive memories without having had her involved in our special day.
Many, many thanks, Jessica!
-Jamie Palin
Jessica and I have been friends for years and I knew she was a Doula. I was excited to ask her to be my doula when the big day came. The wonderful thing was that Jessica was there for me even months before our daughter Sophia was born.
Jessica knew that I wanted to go the natural route and she suggested a DVD called The Business of Being Born. This DVD was wonderful and was eye opening for me and took away some of the mystery of what labor was like. We spent time together discussing different positions and exersises to help move the labor along. She was always positive and kept me motivated and gave me tools I could use to help me get through the painful contractions. She also gave me a book to read called Spiritual Midwifery which was full of first hand testimonials from women about their child birthing experiences. My husband really appreciated how she asked him questions about how he was feeling about the upcoming birth and answered some questions he had.
Days before I started contractions Jessica came by my apartment with a bag full of popcicles and juice to keep me hydrated during my labor. Jessica's presence gave me reassurance and encouragement that I wasn't in this alone. Her lovely smile and positive attitude were always welcome!
During my labor Jessica was an absolute help! Her presence made it possible for my husband to be at my side the whole time. If I needed the nurse she would go track her down. She encouraged my anxious husband to remain calm and focused. I do not know what we would have done without Jessica! I trusted her advice. She had her son naturally and knew how painful and difficult the process was. Her suggestions were always helpful. The nurses were there for my physical health and Jessica was there for my emotional health.
I highly reccommend Jessica as a doula and I plan to request her help in the future!
-Laura Delgadillo
Jessica was our doula for both the birth of my daughter and my son. She was wonderful during the birth and helped me have a natural, unmedicated birth for both of my children. She met us at the birthcenter at the start of labor and stayed with us the entire time. Before the birth, she met with my husband and I to review our birth plan with us. She was also available after the birth with breastfeeding support. I would definitely recommend her as a doula.
-Flora
We liked Jessica from the start because she was very down to earth and chill.
During the pregnancy we met up a few times, talked or went for walks. Then near the end we were in daily contact. It was so great having her to ask all these questions. I would share with her what was happening with my body and she would let me know what it meant and what to do. She was very knowledgeable and I alleviated my nerves on a daily basis.
The day I went into labor we were in contact pretty much constantly. She met us at the Birthing Inn and came prepared with a whole bag of tricks and drinks and the whole shebang. Too bad my labor went so quickly we didn't get to use them! Although, the drinks came in very handy. I downed those Gatorades after I finished pushing that baby out.
Jessica was super great during labor. She was such a calming and peaceful presence. Not only did I appreciate all her help and soothing words and actions, but so did Bill. He definitely felt more at ease with her there. When we had to transfer to the hospital she was right there with us every step of the way. She stayed with us throughout labor and hung out with us in postpartum until we were ready to be on our own. She also came and checked in with us after we brought baby Judah home to go over everything and see if there was anything we needed.
When it comes time for baby number two, there will be no hesitation. Jessica will be our doula from day one (or, you know, week 4)!
-Lacey Ehrenkranz