Rachel's Story
Upon their return home I provided them with postnatal support and guidance.
Rachel contacted me via my website in the summer of 2024 as she was planning to have a homebirth and wanted to hire a doula for support. birth in a hospital setting.
From the first moment I met her and her partner we instantly had a connection and were aligned in our thoughts and beliefs about pregnancy and birth. Rachel chose my premium package so had access to both my courses, and several antenatal appointments so we could get to know each other well. During the course of her pregnancy, we spoke on the phone regularly to discuss her options for birth and after her midwife appointments so she could ask me any questions. I also attended some appointments in person to provide support and advocacy. At the end of her pregnancy, we made a detailed birth plan, and then I went on call for her from 38 weeks. During the course of labour, I supported her with several coping mechanisms and comfort measures. I suggested a series of movements called the 'miles circuit' to assist with baby moving down into the pelvis, as the midwife suggested that baby was not in an optimum position. As her labour progressed, Rachel and her partner received some pressure from the maternity unit to come in. I provided information and support to her partner, so that they could make an informed decision.. Shortly after they decided that was for the best, and Rachel had her baby the following evening.
Upon their return home I provided them with postnatal support and guidance.
Supporting this wonderful family was truly unforgettable, and I am so honoured that they chose me as their birth keeper.
Rachel's testimonial
Testimonial
We hired Lou to be our doula for the birth of our first baby. We were so pleased to have her by our side in the last few months of my pregnancy. Lou has been super helpful in navigating the maternity system and providing support, coming with me to several antenatal appointments. The week I went into labour she was brilliant at keeping us calm and feeling supported, particularly when we were dealing with stressful situations that didn’t align with our birth plan. Thanks to her experience and knowledge, we really felt we could rely on her and were prepared for any eventuality. My husband found her help and support incredibly helpful both during the birth and in the lead up to it. We really appreciated her flexibility and availability, nothing was too much and I felt I could rely on her to be present physically and emotionally. The birth ended up being very different to what I had planned, but I felt empowered and in control at all times.
We also signed up for the courses, which were educational and informative, with plenty of evidence based research; and the format makes it very easy to consult again when needed.