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What is a Doula?

A doula (also called a "birth guide") is a person who is there with the mom before, during, and after the labor. (There is an interesting book about doulas called "Mothering the Mother"). "Mothering the Mother" is full of statistics about how women who use doulas require less medical intervention during labor. The doula's job is to take care of the mom.

She helps you with your birth plan before the labor and helps you execute it during the labor. She suggests positions to try and has all kinds of tricks to help make labor easier. She can help you judge whether or not it is really time to go to the hospital. She is not a midwife; she is not medically trained. Her knowledge comes from having attended many, many births. She is a clear head during labor to help you when things get crazy; she can remind you about all the different things you learned in your birth class but cannot remember because you are in LABOR (and your husband is panicking)! She is like your best friend or your sister, but with a lot more knowledge about the birthing process. Invaluable. Laura Beth

A Doula is also known in many circles as a "labor coach." Many times a Midwife is a Doula, and vice versa, but not always. In California, most Doulas have some training, but are not certified in the same strict manner as midwives. I had both a Doula and a Midwife for my hospital birth. A Doula is especially useful for an OB assisted birth in a hospital, since the doula will usually come to your house towards the beginning of labor, and stay with you until at least several hours afterward, a service doctors and most midwives are unable to provide. She will help you decide when to go to the hospital, run "interference" with the hospital staff, and do anything you request to help make you as comfortable as possible. Some doulas are also lactation consultants, which is a real bonus for getting breastfeeding off to a good start. She provides physical and emotional support to the mother. Even if your partner is with you, a doula is a help, since that allows the partner to get some sleep, take breaks, and focus on the mother.

One other way of looking at it is that the midwife/doctor's primary responsibility is the Baby. The Doula's primary responsibility is the Mother.

Hope that helps! Dawn

Why we like doulas

Doula's decrease the average first labor by 9 hours and the chance of C-sec by 19%. With statistics like that, invest in a good doula, it's worth it. Beth (Nov 2001)
I have to say that we found having a doula to be a wonderful thing and we certainly believe that it helped to make our daughter's birth a much easier, more enjoyable, rewarding and safe experience than we would have had if we had not had assistance from Linda Mixon-Jones. Good luck, Adam (Nov 2001)
To the person asking for doula recommendations... I'm not sure if I can be helpful in the reference department, since Janaki Costello was my doula, but I just want to encourage you to find a doula -- having that support made a huge difference to me in having a positive birth experience, and specifically a difference in my confidence before during and after. I also had superb nursing care at Alta Bates. I think they were making an effort (7/2000) to match women who wanted natural childbirth with nurses who were into it, so that may be something to pay attention to. I also was able to get a room with a bathtub, and laboring in the tub helped me a lot. Best of luck, Susan (Nov 2001)
If you're on the fence about hiring one, read "Mothering the Mother" by Marshall Klaus. There are listings of doulas at The Nurture Center in Lafayette and BirthWays in Berkeley. Meri (Nov 2001)

Where to find a doula

November 2001

I am looking for a doula. I am due Jan. 15 and will be delivering at Alta Bates with an OB. My husband and I have heard that delevery can go much more smoothly with the assistance of a doula. We would like to hire a Doula by recommendation. The lists that are out there seem overwhelming. Also, can anyone tell me how much I should expect to pay for Doula services? Elizabeth

I'm new to the area but here are a few suggestions 
   Birthways in Oakland, on Santa Clara near the Grand Lake theater (www.birthways.org)
   DONA - Doulas of North America (www.dona.com or maybe org)
   ALACE -Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators
   www.childbirth.org
   CAPPA - http://www.childbirthprofessional.com/
I am a birth and postpartum doula just learning the ropes here in California. I was doing this work in Western Massachusetts for the past 5 years. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me. in peace Samantha

How much does it cost?

A doula usually costs around $300 to $500, which includes one or more pre-birth visits in your home, full support during your labor, and one or more visits afterwards. This cost is occasionally reimbursable through insurance, though rarely. It's well worth it, though, especially if you cannot afford to have a midwife, and must have an OB-attended birth. (Dawn, 1999)
We used Linda Mixon-Jones (see review below). As for cost, I think it cost a total of $650 or so. Adam (Nov 2001)
For 2 pre-consultations (not including the in-person interview) and support during labor (at home and hospital) and up to 2 post-partum lactation consultations, we paid just under $500. Susan (Nov 2001)
Most doulas charge from $500 to $1,000 for the birth and a few pre- and post-partum visits, depending upon their degree of experience. Meri (Nov 2001)
Linda Almond-Nichols ... did a wonderful job. I believed she charged $600, and was worth it! Amzel (Nov 2001)
Lisa Moon's fee 2 1/2 years ago was $800. Half up front half after the birth. What was supposed to be included was 2-3 pre-birth visits, the birth and 2 post-partum visits. Beth (Nov 2001)
Meghan Lewis charged us $775 back in April 2001. Teresa
Linda Jones-Mixon charges in the upper end of the $500-1000 range that others have mentioned for doula services. (Nov 2001)
When I delivered in February 2001, my doula, Jennifer Starling, was charging a sliding scale of $4-700, whatever you can pay. That included two pre-labor visits, one post-labor visit, and of course, being there for the birth. Whitney

Questions to ask a doula

July 2002

I know there are labor doula recommendations on the web site but most of them are 1-2 years old now. I was wondering if I could get any recommendations or cautions from people who have used this service more recently. Also are there any questions you didn't ask your doula that you wish you had in restrospect? Thank you for any help you might have.

I wish I had made it more clear that I wanted my doula to help me breathe through my contractions, and to help my husband coach me through my breathing as well. During the interview I was sure I had made my needs clear, but during my labor she seemed to get caught up in the moment and forgot about mt request. Finally I exclaimed, ''will somebody please help me breathe through these!'' and she did, but by then it was too little too late. To be fair, she was wonderful in many other ways.

I would suggest that you ask the doula you are interviewing to list her strong points before you tell her what you want. If her strengths match your needs then you may have found a good doula for you. If you have to ask her to do something that she doesn't list as a strength, she may not be the right one. anonymous

My wife and I heartily recommend the doula we used to assist us with the birth of our daughter 18 months ago. Her name is Linda Jones Mixon. She's caring, funny, easy going and just fantastic. She was an immense help all the way around. You can reach her at 510-540-7210. Linda also is the proprietor of ''Pickles and Ice Cream'' - the infant / baby store in No. Berkeley on Shattuck at Cedar. You can usually find here there.

Two other recommendations I'd like to pass along are Janicke Costello and Carol-Shattuck Rice. You can reach them at 415-525-1155. They team teach a great 8-week long birthing class in El Cerrito and they are birthing doulas as well. Their class is quite good and we have heard from other folks that they are great doulas. Good luck, Adam.

I would highly recommend my doula, Constance Williams. She attended my daughter's birth 16 months ago. She was incredible. I really believe that I would have had a c-section if it weren't for her. She did exactly what I wanted her to do. She is very strong and she massaged my legs non-stop for 5 hours. I gave birth with out an epidural which was also nice. She also knows all the nurses at Alta Bates which is very helpful because she made sure that we got terrific nurses. Good luck! Madeleine
Not sure if you want specific doula recommendations or genral info. I can just tell you that we used a doula for my daughter's birth last year. We had other family present at the birth but I just wanted someone who ''knew'' what they were doing there as well. Our doula had been our childbirth prep class instructor and we had started to really like her and felt comfortable with her. She was a Godsend. I had a very long labor and some glitches with the hospital. She kept me calm when there were several times I could have freaked out. I opted for an epidural and she was supportive. She made sure my husband and other family were taken care of (rested, got food, fielded calls, etc.) and made sure that I had everything I needed (jello, water, quiet, footrubs, etc.). She asked questions of the nurses and doctors that I wouldn't have thought to ask and did it in a respectful way so the staff didn't feel threatened.All in all, it was a wonderful experience and she definitely made! a difference. I am sure I could have done it without her but I wouldn't have wanted to. Especially with my first baby. My friend is now using her for her birth next month. Nicole
I've replied off-line to posters in the past, and now I'm wondering why -- no reason to keep such a good doula a secret!

We chose Rebecca Husband for our daughter's birth. She was wonderful, thoughtful and respectful of our wishes. Our baby was several weeks overdue and though it became clear that it wasn't going to be the natural birth we'd hoped for, she helped keep it close to our ideal. The fact that she has a very good working relationship with Alta Bates staff was a plus (she also volunteers there for women who arrive without partners and whose births could be helped with a doula) -- our delivery nurse was herself a former doula and personal friend of Rebecca's. Our daughter happens to share Rebecca's birth date, which has kept us close - she came to her christening and recently to dinner with her beau.

The activities we did with her as we got our brains around the reality of birth were interesting, and her information dovetailed nicely with that we received from the instructor, Jennifer, at the Alta Bates Childbirth prep class. My baby brother was born at home, so I was quite familiar with natural childbirth - but when I became frustrated and demanded drugs, she was patient and supportive. They also managed to coax me into the shower instead and the baby was born just 2 hours later (6 hrs total).

The only thing I might have asked her to do was rub my back more - my husband was exhausted and could have maybe just held my hand a bit, but who knows?

She had a sliding scale for three visits and a post-partum follow up, and brought fresh roses from her garden for the delivery room which was really really nice! Happy to provide more details if you'd like. Deirdre

We used Maria Steinman for the birth of our baby boy 7 weeks ago, and were very happy with her. Our son was three weeks early, so we missed two of the three prenatal visits we'd scheduled, (and so I'm not sure what she would've taught us during them) but she made up for that by coming to the house two additional times after the birth to give me an hour-plus massage (she's a certified acupressure practitioner). She's a delight. I would use her again and highly recommend her. If you want more details feel free to email or call me. Or call Maria. Her phone number is (510) 594-2575 Kate Hand pkhand AT attbi.com
I gave birth on February 28, 2002, with my amazing doula Kim Lyons and my husband present. Kim was warm, loving, kind, and unbelievably supportive during a MOST difficult 22-hour labor. She is a masseuse and does some accupressure, both of which were very helpful during the labor. She has a very positive energy about her generally speaking. Additionally, she does infant massage, and teaches you how to do this on your own baby in your post-birth meeting. My baby has been very grateful for this!! Please contact her at birthmate AT yahoo.com or contact me for her phone number. Jennifer
Debi Raya (925-939-2534) was the doula for my birth five months ago for my son Jonah. She was WONDERFFUL! Knowledgable, calm, supportive, well-trained, competent. She is also a massage therapist, which really helped with 30 hours of back labor! She came to our home, where she can do exams to see how dialated you are if you want (she was a certified midwife in Texas I beleive). She stayed in the hospital all night. She's more often at natural births but was very supportive of me when I chose to have petocin and then an edidural for the pain. She was wonderful. My husband and I felt very close to one another during the entire delivery and I beleive it was because of her presence and knowledge. We felt ''accompanied'', supported, and safe. She's a good advocate if you're thinking of a hospital birth. She definately worth having a conversation with to see if it's a good fit for you. Blessings, Sarah
My husband and I would like to recommend our wonderful birth doula, Kathrin Smith, who was with us for the labor and birth of our 2-month-old son. We found Kathrin through Birth and Bonding on Solano. I am a 40-year-old first-time mother, and, though I very much wanted as natural a birth as possible, I was quite apprehensive about being able to go through it without a lot of medical intervention. With Kathrin's knowledge, encouragement and support, we were able to have a better birth experience than we had imagined possible--it was certainly the most moving, amazing and wonderful experience of our lives. I truly believe that without Kathrin's guidance, I would have had a much different, and less participative, experience giving birth to our son. (Most of the labor was at home, and our son was born at Alta Bates.) Kathrin is experienced, smart, warm, loving, grounded, AND has a good sense of humor. I was very inspired and encouraged by her, particularly by the fact that she had her own two daughters naturally at home. She was also very good at including and relating to my husband. She was always available when we called, and was at our home as soon as I needed her once labor began. Kathrin is currently in Marin, but I believe she is moving to the East Bay soon. (She had no trouble getting to our home in the East Bay quickly from Marin.) Please feel free to e-mail me, or call Kathrin at 415/459-4737. Elizabeth

Doula in Berkeley Area

Sept 2004

Haven't seen any recent recommendations on a good Doula in the Berkeley area. We are due in Jan. '05 and are hoping for a drug- free birth at Alta Bates. Does anyone have a good recommendation for someone to mainly help us through labor with trying differnet positions, using various techniques to prevent tearing, etc? Nina

I can personally recommend an excellent doula and close personal friend, who has acted as a doula/birth coach for several people in our circle of friends. Linda Grimes can be reached at (510) 658-5317. She is truly wonderful - will help make your birth plan with you. She provided us with a lot of information we didn't even know existed. I'm sure she can provide you with many references in addition to us. The best on your upcoming birth
just wanted to chime in as one more voice praising Treesa McLean, who made my birth experience last year just fantastic. she lives in Hayward but works throughout the East Bay. i wanted a natural childbirth, if possible, and wanted to labor at home as long as possible so i needed someone to help me manage the pain & stay calm, & Treesa was perfect. she's extremely experienced, very calm, has a wry sense of humor, & just made the whole thing seem entirely manageable. knowing that she would tell me if anything unusual came up, i was able to let go & just focus on my contractions. i'm an older mom, so it was really important to me to have someone who had seen it all & would tell me if it was no longer safe to be at home. as it turned out, with her assistance i stayed at home until the very end, then just popped over to the hospital to deliver! after the birth, she helped with nursing issues, sleeping issues, & general words of wisdom. so glad i found her; she's fabulous. hilary
I had a non-medicated birth at Alta Bates with Patty Lipinska in March 2003. Patty lives in Berkeley. She was very helpful in suggesting various positions to facilitate birth and prevent tearing. Good luck! Tonya
I would highly recommend Lisa Moon (lisamoon AT moonmamas.com, cell 435-7643) for your doula services. She was my doula and gave me great support before and after labor. (Unfortunately during labor she was out of town--when I asked her to be my doula she told me well in advance that she would be gone the week of my due date and got back-ups for me). I know she would have been incredible during the birth too. She is highly in favor of home births, but is very supportive of hospital births as well. And she definitely supports medication free births, and the resources to help a woman accomplish that, although she is very open to whatever a particular woman needs for her particular birth.

If you want to meet her and get to know her style, she teaches a free class every Friday morning (9-11:30) at Elephant Pharmacy (which I would also highly recommend--it combines prenatal yoga on a birthing ball taught by a woman named Liv with Lisa's Art of Birthing class). Good luck and healthy birthing! Amy

I highly recommend Judy Ballinger. She is a doula and a post- partum doula, and she also practices acupressure (she's also a registered nurse). She was our doula at Alta Bates in June 2004 for the birth of our first child. I had an emergency pitocin induction due to fetal distress, and she helped me achieve a vaginal delivery...and one using NO drugs. Apparently this was a difficult feat considering what we were up against. I think the medical staff expected my labor would end in a C-section, but with Judy's expertise, it was unnecessary.

Judy works for what YOU want, whether it's drug-free or not. She wants your birth experience to be positive. I basically left it to her to follow our birth plan - one she helped us write - (i.e., she reminded the doctors of our wants and needs, even though due to medical complications, some couldn't be fulfilled) so my husband and I could focus on the labor and delivery (we didn't remember ANYTHING from childbirth classes). Judy is very experienced and she is known at Alta Bates. I would definitely hire her again. She can be reached at 510-236-1543. Or you can email me if you have further questions. bradycj

we had judy ballinger for our first child and have reserved her for number 2 as well - she's great her contact info - aksharadoula AT mac.com 510-846-1193 ilona
I would like to recommend Ann Haynes as a wonderful Doula (both birth and postpartum). She attended the birth of my daughter 3 months ago and helped make it a wonderful experience!! Ann is a very warm, loving person and has a very calm demeanor that is very comforting while in labor. My husband and I met with Ann several times before the birth so she really got to know us. During these meetings, we discussed my expectations for the type of birth I would like. We also discussed different birthing positions and what, in particular, I felt comfortable with. Ann stayed with me throughout the entire labor. My labor was about 14 hours long (5 of which was pushing)and she stayed with me, gave me massages, and encouraged me the whole way through. I cannot say enough good things about her. We have also had the luxury of seeing her in action taking care of the baby. She is even more warm and loving with children. She has a special type of interaction with children and I trust her full heartedly with my kids. If you would like to contact Ann Haynes directly her contact information is: anndoula@yahoo.com and 510-847-9743. Feel free to also email me if you would like more information. Anita
I had Ann Haynes as my Childbirth Doula and she also helped us out with post-partum baby care. She is fantastic. I selected her card from the corkboard in Waddle and Swaddle, completely randomly. I couldn't be happier. She is a very gentle soul and listened carefully to every concern. She is primarily responsible for me chosing to have a natural birth (what an experience). I couldn't recommend her more highly. She can be reached at: anndoula AT yahoo.com and 510-847-9743 Erin

Doula/Midwife of Color

May-June 2003

Does anyone know of any midwives of Color [especially African or African American] in the Bay Area??? I'm looking for someone for my second homebirth. anon

I had a wonderful african american nurse at Summit, who is also a doula. Perhaps she can recommend a midwife for you. Her name is Tora Springer, try contacting her at Tora941 at aol.com or 510-848-9724. Heather
I don't know an African-American midwife, but Beah Haber is Latina. She works in the Birth Home in Pleasanton, but also does home births. The doula who worked with me for my birth in January, Samsarah Becknell, is African American. You can contact her at bayareabirthpros.com. Good luck!
There is an african-american midwife who works primarily at Highland Hospital, but also works Thursdays at women's clinic at San Francisco General Hospital. Unfortunately I only know her first name: Dana, but you might be able to track her down. good luck
For the person looking for a midwife of color - there is a home birth midwife in the East Bay named Lucero who is Latina, and another midwife told me she is a good midwife - but I don't know anyone personally who has used her services. Sorry I don't know her contact info - but you might be able to find it at Natural Resources or another business serving the home birth community.
I had a wonderful African American Doula. She is also a nurse, My daughter is 2, so she may have become a mid-wife, I'm not sure. Her name is Tora Spigner. Good luck.
Tracie Enis is a practicing African American midwife. I used her as my doula prior to her becoming a widwife a few years ago and had great results - she is wonderfully supportive. She can be reached at http://www.tracie-ebonymidwife.com/midwifery.html. She is very committed to extending the traditional midwife services to the African American community. She also has an extensive network of African American birth and post birth resources. Good luck! Liz

Doula for Summit Medical Center Birth

I am giving birth in mid-May at Summit Medical Center, and I am interested in hiring a doula for the birth. I have seen previous recommendations for doula's; however, I am interested in learning about recent experiences (in the past year) with doula's in the area. There have been rave reviews about Makini Duewa, Treesa Mclean, and Christine Gonzalez. Has anyone worked with one or more of the following women: Mariflo Hudson, Meghan Lewis, Alice Elliot, Beth Hammond or Joan Taylor? Is there anyone else I should be considering? Jennifer

I'm sorry I can't speak about any of the women you listed specifically, although I did speak on the phone with both Makini and Joan, after I had already made my decision on a doula...both were lovely women! But, may I suggest, call Felicia Roche before you make your final decision. Here's her website: http://doula.home.att.net/ If you would like more information, email me! Good Luck! Monica
I gave birth in Nov at summit and Treesa Mclean was my duola. She is unbeleivable, probably the most experienced duola in the bay area-- I think she's done like 400 births or something. She knows her way around hospitals, doctors, babies, everything. She also has a terrific personality, and is willing to do anything to help you, from giving you a personal ''babycare'' class to cooking for you when the baby comes. can't say enough good stuff about her. feel free to e-mail me if you have questions. good luck! rebkm
I know you're looking for a few specific names and recommendations for a doula, but couldn't resist reiterating my rave review of Treesa McLean. She is fantastic and on top of the two babies she helped me deliver--I recommended her to several friends who she also helped and absolutely loved her. She is very good at supporting you and your needs and not imposing her ideas on you. All i can say is call her and speak with her --you won't be sorry! Leslie
I worked with two of the doulas listed in your message -- my first child with Meghan Lewis and my second with Treesa McLean. I had natural, unmedicated births with both of them. We enjoyed working very much with Meghan -- she was both sensitive and pragmatic -- and I tried contacting her again for my second birth but couldn't find her at the time, so we went with Treesa. Boy, were we glad we found Treesa! While there was nothing wrong with Meghan, she was less experienced than Treesa and that was the one factor that was missing with my first birth. (Meghan had only a few years under her belt at the time.) I felt that Treesa was completely on top of the situation from the moment she stepped into our house during my labor -- and took great care of both me and my husband after our child was born. She completely had our trust. I can't recommend Treesa highly enough. Rockridge mom
I have posted this before: Joan Taylor was our doula for birth and post-partum. She was fantastic -- Joan has many years experience as a doula (she also has a yoga background, and has a grown son). To put it simply, she absolutely saved me in my labor. I went into labor at 33 weeks, and my husband and I had only met with Joan in our interview with her (and had taken no birthing classes yet). Because the Drs were attempting to stop my labor, I was directed to be on ''bed rest'' (e.g. I was not allowed to get up, or move, at all). Joan arrived at the hospital and helped me to go from 0 to 7 centimeters in about 4 hours, only being able to use my breath and my voice (as the Dr's were dealing with other emergencies, and no one was available to come by and check me -- Joan pushed to get the Dr's to come, and when they finally did my baby's foot was in the birth canal and I had an emergency C-section). I could not have survived that labor without her -- she was able to help me to use what I had available, to work with my body -- it was AMAZING. Additionally, she did postpartum work with us when my premature baby finally came home from the hospital a month later (and he came home small, and on a heart monitor). Our family was under an incredible amount of stress, and she helped support me through my own healing, helped me with breast feeding, helped us eat/organize/sleep, and helped us to find ways to maximize the contact and love we were able to give to our son. She also really loved our son and encouraged us to see how strong he was and how great he was developing (at 9 mos he is doing super now). She really was essential to our survival. She's a wonderful person to spend time with, is extremely compassionate, and also has excellent advice and counsel for a birthing mom, or a new mom. I would call her! (510) 482 8927 or (510) 390 1737 vh
We hired Beth Hammond as our doula for the birth of our daughter in July 2003. We loved Beth! I had several concerns about finding the right fit for us in a doula because we are a lesbian couple, pro-Western medicine and not particularly open to alternative childbirthing methods. I wanted someone familiar with childbirth to support my partner and me, to control the hospital environment and to keep us informed. I wanted to feel protected. I didn't want anyone too ''touchy-feely'' (although I did want some hands-on help during labor), and I wanted someone who would support my choice to get an epidural, if it came to that. I wanted someone warm, but efficient and no-nonsense. Beth was perfect. She met with us a couple of times before the delivery and once afterward. She responded to my telephone calls beforehand, when I had worries. She made sure to involve my partner fully. I was fortunate to have a very short and relatively easy delivery, but there were a few scary moments and my partner and I were grateful for her steadfast presence. It was especially nice to have her there after our daughter was born. And she did not stand in the way of my epidural! She just made sure I understood the decision I was making. I think she is flexible and knowledgeable and would be a good fit for someone with a more alternative outlook, too. I got the feeling that she would be equally helpful to a person who wanted a strictly ''natural'' childbirth experience. I was very clear with her about what I wanted, and she was responsive and wonderful. We highly recommend Beth! If you want more info, feel free to email me. Noel
I have used Beth Hammond for my last three births, including most recently on 11/25/03. She is great! She is very organized, personable, sensitive to what both partners are looking for. By the third birth in 3 and 1/2 years, I even wondered if I needed a doula the last time. Thank goodness I used her because she helped me relax in a way I couldn't do on my own. I was able to have a drug free, natural delivery that I don't believe I could have done on my own. I would highly recommend you contact her. Jody
Stacia Biltekoff was our doula for the birth of our first child (Sept. 2002), and she was amazing. Stacia is an incredibly perceptive and intelligent (and funny) person, and she gave me the confidence and perspective I needed to get through what turned out to be a really, really fast delivery. I told her afterward that I was convinced she had a nearly psychic ability to anticipate what I might be worrying about and reassure me without my even having to ask. I have never felt so well-looked-after in my life. While Stacia was completely respectful of the type of experience we were hoping for, she was right on in giving us critical information and making sure we that we always understood what was going on. She is swift when action is called for and patient when you need her to be. Stacia was available to us before the birth and upon our return from the hospital, helping us with a myriad of things that you can’t get from a birthing class. I never felt like it wasn’t okay to call her. My husband and I both think so highly of Stacia. We can’t imagine a more competent and caring doula, and we hope we’ll be calling on her again one day. You can reach Stacia at: staciadoula AT yahoo.com Amy, Scot and Miles
Judy Ballinger was my Doula last July and she was great - she also does accupressure her e-mail : aksharadaoula AT mac.com ilona
I wholeheartedly recommend our doula, Patty Lipinska. You can reach her at 849-1082. I gave birth in March 2003 at Alta Bates, but I believe she has also worked at Summit. Patty is knowledgable, has a great sense of humor, and is very experienced (I was her 366th birth). I had a completely natural childbirth, and I don't know if I could have done it without her. She was supportive, non-intrusive, but also a good advocate when we needed it. Treesa McLean is her back-up. I also spoke with Treesa on the phone to get to know her a little bit just in case she needed to fill in for Patty. They seem to have very similar philosophies regarding birth, so I probably would have been happy with her as well. Tonya
Hi, I'm sorry I don't remember the specifics from your original posting. However, I want to recommend someone wonderful to you. Her name is Kelli Manring. Kelli has assisted with several births of at least 4 close friends of mine also. My labor was arduous and long (40 hours). Kelli was there for my husband and I through it all. Her strong, gentle voice brought me back from many impossible moments. Her physical strength carried me through intense back labor when everyone else in the room was clearly tired. She birthed with us at home, stayed overnight when we had to go back home, called family when we were too emotionally and physically exhausted to explain what was happening, etc. She respected our wishes, but also carefully surveyed the conditions of the baby and I and gently advised what decisions we might have to make. She worked respectfully with the Alta Bates nurses and doctors through at least 3 staff shifts. Like many unexperienced first time mothers, I was distraught afterwards that the birth was so ''troublesome'' to everyone. Kelli was right there for me in the days and weeks after convincing me that everything went just as it had to and that I had nothing to be ashamed about. Kelli is also a physical therapist so she was able to give me small, manageable excercises to heal my weary muscles and aching body. I couldn't think of a more qualified person to have help welcome new life into the world. Her email is kmptdoula AT hotmail.com and I encourage you to contact her. Please feel free to email me if you would like any other information. evalune

San Francisco Doula/Baby Nurse

See also: Doula at Kaiser SF
Dec 2006

We are giving birth to our first child in February '07 at Cal Pacific Med Center (in SF). We are ideally looking for recommendations or referrals of lower-cost doulas with previous experience working at CPMC through delivery (preferably natural). Many thanks for any suggestions! Elaine

My doula is fabulous, Laura Pliska, 415/297-9258 cell. She's done many births as CPMC (where my first and soon second child will be born). She charges on a sliding scale. She can also recommend other high quality doulas. Her backup (Rachel) and another doula Michelle Wellborn (yes, that really is her last name, she did not change it!) are also great and do sliding scale fees. Amy in SF
June 2006

I am looking for a doula in San Francisco. We are planning to deliver at UCSF. At the moment we are just interested in a labor doula, but may decide to use a postpartum one as well. I looked at previous postings, but they all seem to be pretty old. Any suggestions? Mary

I highly highly recommend our doula, Michelle Welborn. She was so wonderful, supportive, gentle but strong when I needed the encouragement in the thick of my labour. She was creative in helping me prepare for the whole labour and delivery, so that I was not really nervous going into it. I was able to labour with her at home for most of it, which was my preference. We delivered at CPMC, but I know Michelle has worked at UCSF as well. Her website is www.welborndoula.com, which lists her contact info. Feel free to email me if you have additional questions.
Lexie
We had Betsy Appell as our doula for the birth of our first baby in April 2006. We delivered at Kaiser Walnut Creek but she also works in SF hospitals. Her website is wwww.sfdoula.com I had a very long labor (52 hours) & bearing most of it without pain medication would have been impossible without Betsy's help. She also offers hypnobirthing sessions (that are free for her clients) & I found them very useful. We had planned for a medication-free childbirth but things were taking a different turn (I had to take an epidural). Betsy helped us in making the correct medical decisions that enabled me to have a healthy baby boy naturally.She has a very good rapport with the nurses & the doctors & helped clarify their medical advice for us.She provided a spa-like environment in the labor-room & that helped us relax a lot. I have too many good things to say about her & most of it resonate with what her other clients have said on her website & BPN. I would highly recommend her Tandra
Oct 2005

We are giving birth to our first child in February at Cal Pacific Med Center (in SF). We are looking for a doula who can work with us at CPMC through delivery (preferably natural) and possibly post-partum. Many thanks for any suggestions. Lexie

I highly recommend our doula who helped us with both of our kids, she is great! Thoughtful, knowledgeable 25 years, calming presence and oh so helpful! Her name is Esther Gallagher, phone 821-4490 or www.EstherGallagher.com , and she taught our birthing class before our first child. She was great helping out with the baby, taking care or me, cooking fabulous food and smoothing out the stress of the visiting in-laws, the last thing I had no idea would even be an issue. It was so nice to have a someone a around with family far away, we even had her with our second child because it was such an awesome experience. Alycia
I'd like to highly recommend my doula Michelle Welborn. I delivered my first baby at Alta Bates in Berkeley a couple of months ago. Michelle lives and primarily works in San Francisco. She was a great match for us. I birthed my big baby without any medication. It was a great experience overall.

Michelle took a lot of time to talk to us before our birth. We had 2 long prenatal meetings in addition to the initial interview. She was with me for my whole labor (which ended up being about 8 hours) and came for apostnatal visit. She and her backup doula, Kara, also host group prenatal and postpartum meetings once a month where you can meet her other clients, most of whom live in SF.

She is very knowledgeable and also kind and empathetic. I really like her.

She has a website: http://www.welborndoula.com/ New Mom

Hello everyone, We are looking for a doula (to help with delivery) and a ''postpartum doula'' or ''baby nurse'' for the first 2 weeks. I hear so many different terms! :) I have read all of the postings for recommendations, but am looking for more recent referrals for San Francisco. I would like someone who is of course incredibly competent and knowledgeable, but who is also very compassionate and nurturing. Any recommendations for doulas/baby nurses who work in San Francisco would be so greatly appreciated. Thank you so much- Cindy
I have a doula friend in SF. Darya Mead at 415/469-9546. Lise
I have posted this before: Joan Taylor was our doula for birth and post-partum. She was fantastic -- Joan has many years experience as a doula (she also has a yoga background, and has a grown son). To put it simply, she absolutely saved me in my labor. I went into labor at 33 weeks, and my husband and I had only met with Joan in our interview with her (and had taken no birthing classes yet). Because the Drs were attempting to stop my labor, I was directed to be on ''bed rest'' (e.g. I was not allowed to get up, or move, at all). Joan arrived at the hospital and helped me to go from 0 to 7 centimeters in about 4 hours, only being able to use my breath and my voice (as the Dr's were dealing with other emergencies, and no one was available to come by and check me -- Joan pushed to get the Dr's to come, and when they finally did my baby's foot was in the birth canal and I had an emergency C-section). I could not have survived that labor without her -- she was able to help me to use what I had available, to work with my body -- it was AMAZING. Additionally, she did postpartum work with us when my premature baby finally came home from the hospital a month later (and he came home small, and on a heart monitor). Our family was under an incredible amount of stress, and she helped support me through my own healing, helped me with breast feeding, helped us eat/organize/sleep, and helped us to find ways to maximize the contact and love we were able to give to our son. She also really loved our son and encouraged us to see how strong he was and how great he was developing (at 9 mos he is doing super now). She really was essential to our survival. She's a wonderful person to spend time with, is extremely compassionate, and also has excellent advice and counsel for a birthing mom, or a new mom. She actually lives in Oakland, but she has worked in San Francisco. I would call her! (510) 482 8927 or (510) 390 1737 vhowell
Look no further than Esther Gallagher. She rocks. She does both delivery and postpartum, and in fact prefers to do both for the continuity of care. She's completely about taking care of the mommy (and to some extent the daddy) so mommy can figure out about taking care of the baby. She saved me from having a C- section; she got my breast-feeding started smoothly; she whipped unhelpful visiting family members into shape (if you don't like them forthright, you won't like Esther); she helped me and my husband through the stress of sleepless new parenting. Her number is 415-821-4490. heidi
I am looking for a recommendation of a Doula in San Francisco, ideally someone who has experience with the Kaiser facilities. Thank you, Catharina (Dec 1999)
I would recommend Treesa or another wonderful doula/midwife: Esther Gallagher (415-821-4490) who teaches a class at UCSF for 'alternative birth methods'. Goodluck! Liz (May 2001)
Jen Bauman is a doula and midwife who works out of S.F. and I am pretty sure she has a fair amount of Kaiser expirence. She is terrific. I couldn't reccomend her more highly. Her number is 415-221-5958. Good Luck! Liz
Sherry
Bay Area Birth and Postpartum 1-415-442-1918 has many doulas who are available both in SF and the Bay Area. They might help you find someone also familiar with Kaiser. Natural Resources 415-821-7068 also provides resources around childbirth.
Lisa
My doula, Media Aranda was great. She's very involved in the local doula community, does birth education, works in the schools with pregnant teens, and she also has been doing a little bit of child care for us. I really recommend her. Her number is 415-do birth.
From: Beth (1/99)

Natual Resources in San Francisco's Noe Valley, on Castro by 24th Street, has a binder of local doulas. We'll be using Summer Andreason (my due date is Feb. 4). She is a massage therapist and a doula with plenty of experience, and I feel very comfortable with her. I'll send her number to you directly.

Doula for Twins

Oct 2006

I am looking for an experienced doula to help me deliver twins as naturally las possible in Walnut Creek -- John Muir Medical CEnter. Any recommendations? Also - is it unrealistic to believe that I can deliver twins naturally? My OB isn't too optimistic and I'm barely in my second trimester! Sara

get a doula! they will make sure your perspective is right. your body can do this naturally. i have a friend who had twins naturally - she wanted a tub birth but the babies BOTH came out too fast. don't let your ob discourage you. i would find one who believes in you anon
I have 2YO boy/girl twins and did not have a natural birth due to complications (nothing too serious, everybody is happy and healthy). But, having known over 75 twin moms through support groups in Berkeley and elsewhere, I may be able to offer some general advice for your situation. It seems that the delivering pediatrician (yours or the one on call) will have their own perspective on if twins can be delivered naturally. It seems to have to do with their comfort level on breech extraction of the 2nd baby and managing a potentially more complex birth. The more straightforward (conservative?) route seems c-section. At UCSF where they see more high risk cases, in general, they're very comfortable with natural birth (with an epidural inserted but not ''on'' and in an operating room, however). Places like John Muir, with less high risk cases will tend to have less experience and may be more reluctant. These are just my impressions!! A doula may or may not be able to affect your situation once you're in labor. (Lots of times it won't be your doc on call to deliver your babies). I suggest getting a delivery location and doc that aligns with your thoughts rather than counting on a doula to intervene when the time comes. Twim Mom

Doula in Walnut Creek area

See also:
  • Doula at Kaiser Walnut Creek
    June 2003

    My son and his wife are having their first child in late July, at Kaiser in Walnut Creek, and would like to hire a Doula. Recommendations? I've checked the archives, but only saw one in WC, and it was an old post. Susan

    We used Holly Wiersma, who lives in Pleasant Hill and I think works with a lot of clients in Walnut Creek, though she came all the way to Oakland for us. She was wonderful - professional, supportive, compassionate. She was very respectful of our birth preferences and also very helpful to check in with when additional medical interventions were suggested to us. She also stayed in touch after the birth and was a lifesaver postpartum when we were getting all kinds of conflicting advice about breastfeeding etc. - she has a way of sorting through all the different opinions that helped us decide how to proceed. Sandy
    Holly Wiersma is doula who has been around quite a while and is well known and respected in the community. I am a parent educator and know of many moms who have been very happy with Holly. Holly's Home phone: (925)947-5874 email: hdwiersma at hotmail.com

    I also recommend Deanna Jesus who in addition to being a doula, is a Certified Hypnobirthing practitioner She is my doula and I am due in 2 weeks, I have been doing a combined doula/hypnobirthing series with her.

    Deanna's Phone 925-216-7264 douladee AT birthingbabies.com

    Also check out the BIRTH AND BABY FAIR AT NURTURE CENTER IN Lafayette ON JUNE 29TH.

    You can meet doulas there I am sure. Check out nurturecenter.com for more details Teresa

    The Nurture Center in Lafayette keeps a binder of doulas and other birth professionals that you can look through. Most of the doulas practice in the 925 area code (and beyond).

    Doula for Lesbian Couple

    Oct 2004

    My partner and I are expecting our first child in early January and are looking for a doula. I will be giving birth at Alta Bates in Berkeley and am planning a natural birth, but am open and aware that things might change. We want a doula that is sensative to same sex couples, practical, aware and supportive of both mine and my partners needs. We are on a tight budget. We already have one name on our list, Candace Palmerlee, but are looking for others to interview. Thanks.

    Please talk with Samantha Armer. She is wonderful and would be perfect for you. Her number is (510) 655-9200. Linda
    My partner and I (the birth mom) hired Beth Hammond as our doula for our daughter's birth in July 2003. Here's what I wrote about her in a recommendation in response to another question: ''We hired Beth Hammond as our doula for the birth of our daughter in July 2003. We loved Beth! I had several concerns about finding the right fit for us in a doula because we are a lesbian couple, pro-Western medicine and not particularly open to alternative childbirthing methods. I wanted someone familiar with childbirth to support my partner and me, to control the hospital environment and to keep us informed. I wanted to feel protected. I didn't want anyone too ''touchy-feely'' (although I did want some hands-on help during labor), and I wanted someone who would support my choice to get an epidural, if it came to that. I wanted someone warm, but efficient and no-nonsense. Beth was perfect. She met with us a couple of times before the delivery and once afterward. She responded to my telephone calls beforehand, when I had worries. She made sure to involve my partner fully. I was fortunate to have a very short and relatively easy delivery, but there were a few scary moments and my partner and I were grateful for her steadfast presence. It was especially nice to have her there after our daughter was born. And she did not stand in the way of my epidural! She just made sure I understood the decision I was making. I think she is flexible and knowledgeable and would be a good fit for someone with a more alternative outlook, too. I got the feeling that she would be equally [if not more] helpful to a person who wanted a strictly ''natural'' childbirth experience. I was very clear with her about what I wanted, and she was responsive and wonderful. We highly recommend Beth!'' Beth's fee was (at the time) $700. In my search, that was pretty standard. Feel free to email me if you want more information . . . Noel
    Check out Dancing Doula and Massage Services, Toni Knutson of Oakland, 510-502-5799, at website http://doulanetwork.com/directory/doulas/1804.htm

    She is a lesbian and preferentially serves the LGBT community in the Bay Area. I volunteer with her through a nonprofit and think she's great! I don't know how her fees compare with others, however.

    Also try Maia Conception and Midwifery Services http://www.maiamidwifery.com/whoarewe.html They may have other doula references.

    I'm a labor and delivery nurse at ABMC, a lesbian, and do labor support. You could ask for me, evening shift, and if I'm working I'd love to be your nurse. I don't want to give out my name on this list, but if you like, post an email address and I'll write you.

    Hypnobirthing doula

    April 2004

    If you are looking for a doula and/or interested in hypnobirthing, I would highly recommend Betsy Appell, www.sfdoula.com. My husband and I took a ''HypnoBirthing, make your partner your doula'' workshop from her recently. We found her to be extremely knowledgeable, thorough and professional as well as kind, gentle and caring. She also provided a bunch of information for us to take with us. I have heard many good things about Betsy from other people and I believe she is tops in her field. Please feel free to email me with any questions. jeewon

    I want to recommend a great prenatal class my husband and I recently took. It's taught by a Berkeley-based doula named Betsy Appell and is a hypnobirthing class that teaches deep relaxation techniques as well as how to make your partner your doula. I think the class would be great for just about everyone (any type of birth plan), but it would be especially great for someone who is interested in having a doula but can't afford one. Betsy shares all her doula tricks and provides lots of take-home material. Her website is www.sfdoula.com and her email is betsy AT sfdoula.com. Beatrice
    March 2003

    Any recommendations for doulas who can coach me with a hypnobirthing birth? The Hypnobirthing courses helped tremendously with the birth of my first child, but I think I could really benfit from a doula this next time. Natasha

    Hi Natasha - I've been snooping around for a hypnobirthing-friendly doula too and received the following recommendation from the Hypnobirthing Institute (Marie Mongan's program). Lu Ann Daly is a labor companion as well as a HypnoBirthing practitioner. She lives in Santa Rosa, but will travel down to the east bay for you if you ask her to. Contact her at 707-538-5133. The distribution manager from the Hypnobirthing Institute said to be sure to mention that you got her number from him (George from New Hampshire). Good luck! evelyn
    Try Makini Duewa, a certified Doula and friend of mine. She is also trained in hypno-birthing. Phone: 625-1395 Brightstar
    November 2002

    I'm looking for a doula or *some one* who does self-hypnosis training for labor. Does any one know of anybody here in the bay area? Alesia

    Debra at 7th Heaven Yoga in Berkeley teaches Hypnobirthing classes. Call 7th Heaven and ask if they can put you in touch with Debra. Whitney
    Harpreet Sandhu in Berkeley teaches Hypnobirthing. www.innerrevelations.com. amy
    My friend Makini Duewa is a certified doula who is also trained in hypno-birthing. She might be able to help you. (510) 625-1395. Brightstar

    Doula who does massage

    Oct 2005

    I'm expecting a baby early 2006. This time around, I'm considering hiring a doula. I would love to know if there are any doulas who are also massage therapists, or who use massage during labor. Thanks for any recommendations! expecting

    I highly recommend our doula who is also a fantastic massage therapist! Her name is Elizabeth Lipsius (415) 317-0611. Anne
    We used Jaqui McClure as our doula and she brought in such warmth and sensitive quiet energy that really helped the birth process feel as natural as it's actually supposed to be. The massage was wonderful and well timed. Contact her at bradders6[AT]yahoo.com David
    Candace Palmerlee, our doula for the birth of our daughter in November 04, is also a massage therapist, and includes a prenatal massage in her services. She lives and works in Oakland, and her website is http://www.cpalmerlee.com/. She was a terrific doula - matter of fact, funny, conscientious, and warm - and gave me a great massage. Good luck! Massaged
    Try Jeffie Miller who is a wonderful massage therapist, is almost done with nursing school and has started a doula practice. She's truly wonderful. You can reach her at 510-207- 2880. SB
    I wanted to recommend a wonderful doula. Her name is Emily Ross. She does prenatal, postnatal and overnight care. She is a certified doula who is knowledgable, calm, supportive, well- trained, and competent. She is also a massage therapist, which really helps! She has a lot of experience in hospitals in the Bay Area and she's a good advocate if you're thinking of a hospital birth. She is definately worth having a conversation with to see if it's a good fit for you. Her rates are reasonable and her initial consultation is free. One of the things the people who hire her often have her do is stay overnight as a night nurse, which allows them to get the sleep they so desperately need. You can reach her directly at 510-224-7255. Cindi

    Doula in Training

    Feb 2005

    I'm looking for a free or very low-cost doula (perhaps in training) to help me with the birth of my second child in March. I am planning on delivering at Alta Bates with a midwife. Any recs would be helpful. Thanks

    May 2004

    Hi, I'm expecting my second child in July. In New York City there is a ''volunteer doula service'' where doulas in training assist at births for free or at reduced rates according to their level of experience. It is organized by a doula trainer. Is there anything similar here, and/or do you have any recommendations of individuals to contact? Thanks a lot in advance. Jodi

    Hi there, I coordinate the Alta Bates/ Berkeley Primary Care Access Clinic Volunteer Doula program. While the program is (currently) focused on supporting BPAC clients, we have many doulas in training (doulas who've received training but need 1-3 births to get certified) who would love to support a laboring mom. Please email me if you are interested. Thanks, Maria
    hello mama to be: congrats on baby #2. I am a doula at the lower end of the fee scale ($500) & would be happy to talk to you. In terms of doulas in training, you may want to contact the local doula trainers, who would be able to give you info on the women who recently completed the didactic training & need 3 volunteer births to complete their certification: 
    Debbie Lavin: info at childbirtheducation.net 
Felicia Roche: doula at att.net
Carol Shattuck-Rice: carolshattuck-rice at comcast.net
    best wishes for a beautiful birth! Virginia Duplessis

    Pro Drug Doula

    Jan 2002

    I read the recommendations for labor doulas on the Berkeley Parents Network, and most of them either said or implied that the doula helped them avoid drugs during labor. I want to have a good birth experience, and for me this is likely to involve an epidural. I am looking for a doula who would not just tolerate but would support my choice to use pain-control technology--I know this goes against the philosophy of many doulas, but I'm hoping there will be some who share my attitude. Skill at massage would be a big plus; another plus would be someone who also works as a post-partum doula (though I am open to hiring a separate person for that function). Nomi

    I had great doulas who were not necessarily "pro-drug" but did not try to stop me or make me feel bad when I decided to have the epidural. I had discussed that I may have the epidural when we met initially and I got the feeling that it was my choice to do whatever I needed to get through the birth process. I did not have the epidural until I was 8 or 9 cm dilated, so I did need their assistance for a long time with pain management (from about midnight until about 8:30 a.m.) Treesa McLean (510-581-1013) taught my birth class and we asked her to be our doula. She was very busy at the time I was due, so we decided that her friend Jennifer Starling (510-530-1660), who was also a doula and who assisted with our birth class, would be my backup doula. The big night came and of course, Treesa was at a birth in San Francisco (I delivered at Summit), so Jennifer came over. Treesa also came over too (too complicated to explain why they were both there) but Jennifer "took care of me" primarily. She massaged my back which I really needed since I had back labor. She did a lot of messy things that won't go into here with a sense of humor, kindness and gentle calm that was wonderful. They both went to hospital with me and were both wonderful. Treesa had to go back to the birth in the city before it was time to push, so Jennifer walked me through that part. My doctor, Goldee Gross, really liked Jennifer and asked for her card so that she could refer to other patients. Jennifer has young children so she does not do post-partum doula work I THINK, but Treesa was an absolute miracle post-partum doula. She taught me how to pump milk and how to deal with my painful engorged breasts. She make me an herbal soak for my stitches. She cooked DELICIOUS food. She changed sheets and did laundry. She helped me with breast feeding. She helped us bathe Emily the first time. She took care of Emily so I could sleep. SHE WAS WONDERFUL. All in all, I would highly recommend both Jennifer and Treesa! Lisa
    I have once again to recommend my friend (and 2-time doula) Linda Jones-Mixon. In my earlier recommendation I did say that having Linda help out with the births of my daughters helped me avoid having to have any drug intervention, but I can't emphasize enough that not taking drugs was right for me, and Linda supported me because it was right for me, *not* because she cleaves to some absolute standard of "natural" childbirth. In fact, I know that had I needed (in my opinion) an epidural, she would have totally supported me in my attempts to have the birth experience that was right for me. The friend of mine who recommended Linda to me *did* have to use some drugs (a narcotic to take the edge off labor), and did so at least in part because Linda suggested (given how her labor was going) that it might be a good idea. She wants the birth to be right for you, and for your baby. I recommend her without reservation Donna
    I had looked for a Pro-drug labor doula when my son was born 15 months ago, but found it quite difficult. In conversation with my OB, I discovered that there really wasn't much sense in paying the price for one. Once they admit you to the hospital, where the doula would meet you, you can pretty much request the epidural when you want it (at least that was my experience). Once you have the epidural, there's no point to the doula until after the baby is born and you are back in your room. I heard a friend once say that her doula ended up only rubbing her feet which proved annoying and expensive. I recommend communication with your OB and a clear understanding of what you want in your experience (i.e. an epidural asap or try to get as far as you can w/o one) and communication with your partner to encourage your vision of your experience. You will have a labor and delivery nurse, make sure you are happy with the once assigned or charge your partner with asking someone to switch. I would recommend the post-partum doula for help with breast feeding and caring for the baby after the birth and/or once you are home. good luck and best wishes. I had a great experience following all of what I just advised and hope it goes just as well for you. Lynn
    I can recommend Felicia Roche as a wonderful doula who is level-headed and wise about the epidural/no epidural issue-- however, I would not say she is "pro-drug." My husband and I hired her to be at the birth of our daughter, and while we were aiming for a natural childbirth, we also knew we had no idea what it was really going to be like and so we wanted our doula to completely support us if we decided to have an epidural. Felicia was one of the few doulas I interviewed who was accepting of epidurals. In the end, I managed to get through labor without one and Felicia was a life-saver. But I know she works with many of her clients who have them. She is in Alameda and her phone number is 510-864-8480. Kim
    Our doula, Jennifer Starling, did not come between me and the epidural, the pitocin, the narcotics, or the breaking of my water during my 20 hour labor. Though my plan was to have a drug-free birth, I didn't feel she disapproved of our choice to use drugs once I decided I needed them. Instead, when I asked her opinion on what the doctor had suggested for me, she said she supported my decision. In our pre-natal consulation with her she told us that she would not discourage us from using drugs, and understood the need for them in some births (she had one birth with an epidural and the other natural). She massaged my legs and feet with oil often which was wonderful. At one point she also offeredw post-partum doula services, though I don't know if she still does. You can contact her at 530-1660, and if she has the same email address: jenstarling at yahoo.com. Her easy-going temperment was the deciding factor for us in choosing her over others. Good luck angela
    I highly recommend Treesa McLean (510)581-1013 as a birth and post-partum doula--drugs or no-drugs. She supports whatever your choice is and is there to fully support you regardless of whether or not you choose to have an epidural. I spoke to many doula's prior to the birth of my daughter and, like you, found that many were simply opposed to even the possibility that I might want drugs/epidural. Treesa was there for me and my husband, knowing that I might want an epidural. One thing you should keep in mind though--with my birth experience, I dilated so quickly that by the time I was yelling to get an epidural, drugs, anything, the moment had passed and alas, I had natural child birth. All this to say, that I'm pregnant again and expecting any day now, and we've hired Treesa again as our doula--and this time, I know I want an epidural! good luck. Leslie PS I don't know if I could have made it through naturally without her--I panicked. She's also great at massage and a great cook if you need the post-partum help too.
    My Doula, Judy Ballinger, wasn't exactly "pro-drugs" but I ended up wanting them, and she was extremely supportive of my decision. In fact, she was right there, making sure I got what I asked for when I wanted it. I also ended up having an epidural, and her role there was mainly to be sure that I felt comfortable that all of my questions were answered by the anesthesiologist. I really felt she was listening to (and advocating for) MY wants, rather than her agenda. I'm expecting again in July and we'll be hiring her again. By the way, while she didn't do a lot of massage, she is an accupressurist, which did help somewhat. Also, my husband, who was a little overwhelmed by the whole experience, was very comfortable with Judy. I'd be happy to answer any questions about my experience -- my number is , and Judy's number is 236-1543. Good luck, Polly
    As a doula of 11 years, I would like to address this issue. The comment was true in that many doulas would like to help women accomplish a drug-free birth. I also fall into that category -- but only if that is what the woman WANTS. I look at my work as a doula, as helping a woman or couple have the best birth they can have, based on their wishes. There have been occasions where I have suggested that the woman have an epidural (or another form of pain relief) because in my estimation, that would have been the best for her birth experience at that particular time. I would be willing to speak to anyone that feels they would like to have a doula at their birth, but are hesitant because feel they will want an epidural Linda Jones-Mixon

    Doula for VBAC

    Jan-Feb 2004

    I'm expecting baby #2 in late March. My last pregnancy ended with an emergency c-section. I'm hoping to have better luck this time around, and to help luck along, I'd like to find a doula who has experience assisting moms in my situation to have a natural VBAC. I've looked on the website but didn't see any date for the recommendations listed there, so I'd appreciate hearing recent stories of positive experiences with doulas and VBACs. Many thanks.

    I haven't done it, but if I were to give birth again, it would be a VBAC, and I would not hesitate to hire my friend Samantha Armer, ''Birthday And Beyond.'' (lezelda AT att.net or 655-9200) She is very nurturing, soothing, and tough as nails when she needs to. She is also a fantastic, flexible cook for afterward, when you just need to eat and sleep and take care of your baby. Jennie
    Hi, You don't say where you'll be delivering or who your OB or midwife is. I'm a labor and delivery nurse at Alta Bates. What the doula does will be no different for you for a woman who has no prior CS, which is giving you labor support which will hopefully assist you to avoid pain medication during labor and giving you a positive experience. Is this your goal with a doula? She can not actually help you avoid a repeat CS. You're going to attempt a TOLAC (trial of labor after caserean) --(it's not a VBAC until after successful vaginal delivery). What IS important is your doctor's track record of actually letting his/her patients have a genuine trial of labor. A good number of MDs are shy of TOLACs and there is a hospital (I think in the Sacramento or Davis area) that refuses TOLACs, no matter what the mom wants. Good luck! anonymous
    Amy Hyams (415-206-0138) supported me and my partner through a successful VBAC last week. (Amy is S.F.-based, but works with many East Bay clients, and conducts prenatals at your E.B. location, in addition to attending births at all the usual East Bay spots. She also works with E.B. clients planning S.F.-based births.)

    Amy combines incredible resourcefulness and knowledge with an unusual level of emotional support. Amy helped me strategize about how to deal with the doctors in my practice, including one who didn't seem very positive about the VBAC; she also helped me cope with the emotional side of hearing some of those negative messages from my medical team--from the prenatal visits through the birth. Amy's suggestions actually helped me take my second birth and all my preparations for it to a higher level. At the same time, I always felt that Amy was on top of all the practical details, a consummate professional. (She's a former project manager, and it shows. Great organizational and people skills, can-do attitude, and if she doesn't know something, she finds out.) And she's very much a liason in relation to the medical staff--non-confrontational, but always helping me and my partner make our own decisions based on all the available information.

    My second labor was very long and it was not clear until the last two hours that it would be a successful VBAC instead of a repeat C-section. Amy was there for me throughout (hands on, lots of massage, etc.) and she helped me decide after 40 plus hours that I was not ready to give up; I'll never forget the tears in her eyes as she watched the birth of my son. Amy helped make this birth an incredibly healing experience. Of course, I'd recommend her services (which include wonderful postpartum support) to any expecting mom. Hilary

    I had a VBAC for my second child with doula, Treesa McLean. She was fabulous. Very supportive, very flexible, humorous, easy going and not too touchy feely(which is what I wanted). I told her I would like to do the VBAC without drugs if possible, but to ''get me the drugs'' if I was really begging and screaming. Well, I begged and screamed, and she very gingerly told me ''it's too late, you have to push now''! I still to this day do not know how I did it through all the pain, but was so glad she was with me and my husband. Her number is: (510) 581-1013. She is very busy and books up quickly. I secured her for my birth in the first 2 months of my pregnancy. A VBACer
    I'm sorry that I don't have a doula to recommend, but wanted to encourage you in your search. The poster who thought that a doula could not help you have a VBAC perhaps meant that using a doula cannot guarantee one. There is a fairly large literature, beginning with a seminal study by Klaus and Kennell (and which includes randomized, prospective studies) that finds that using a doula is associated with lower odds of a caesarian delivery. The reductions in the rate of caesarian delivery found have been as large as 50 percent. Statistically speaking, a doula seems like an effective thing to try in your quest for a VBAC. anon
    I had a successful VBAC three years after my son was born. I did not use a doula with the cesarian birth. I hired Linda Jones-Mixon as my doula for the VBAC. She is great! She was relaxed and humorous, yet kept close watch on the monitors and hospital staff to give me feedback throughout my labor. She helped me focus and take one contraction at a time. I labored and delivered without drugs. What a difference between c-section and vaginal birth! It was so wonderful to be alert when my daughter was born. I found my daughter was more alert too. From what I have researched, Doulas run $800 to $1000. If you want to contact Linda, you can find her at her store, Pickles and Ice Cream on Shattuck Ave. in N. Berkeley (soon to change the name to Waddle and Swaddle). The number is 510-540-7210. I also found the Sears' Birthing Book very helpful. You might also check out the Jan/Feb 2002 issue of Mothering magazine which had a few articles on VBACs. Good luck! Jennifer
    I wish you all the very best with a VBAC. I became pregnant very soon (7 mos) after my C-section and was scared stiff about, not only delivering, but trying for a VBAC. I hired Lindy Johnson as my midwife and she was wonderful and I successfully had a beautiful VBAC. I know that you specifically asked about a doula but if you can at all swing having a midwife, I cannot recommend it enough. The more you surround yourself with supportive people who will encourage you and help you realize that it is possible..the more possible it becomes. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me directily at my email address. All the very best! Liz
    I had a great VBAC experience about 13 months ago thanks to Linda Jones-Mixon, a doula that I seeked out because of all the positive reviews in this UC parent's network. Linda was great and met all my needs in a short amount of time. I think we started talking only 8 weeks before my due date! I was really not sure if I wanted a VBAC and was comfortable to do a c-section again. But as soon as I realistically came to the conclusion that coming home to a toddler after a c-section was not going to be comfortable for the whole family, and instantly bonded with Linda and knew that I was going to be ''relaxed'' with her by my side, I was less panicked about the delivery. I interviewed a couple of other doulas and Linda is not cheap by any means- she was the most expensive that I interviewed. But quite frankly, labor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience (even if you have more than one birth, it seems every exeprience is different), and I chose Linda because of her years and years of experience and just because I felt very comfortable with her. Good luck. VBAC was certainly a great experience for me. I would definitely do it over again (with Linda on my side again!) Gina
    I had a wonderful VBAC at Alta Bates in November. I did use a doula and it was one of the best decisions of my life. My husband and I both found her to be absolutely fabulous. She met with us twice before the birth to review labor and delivery issues, address any issues of particular concern to us and to talk about planning for the labor. She lent us many very helpful videos and books (one I particularly liked about VBAC was by Carl Jones), including one about helping the older sibling to adjust to the new baby (how this would affect our 2 year old was a big concern of ours). She came to our house at 4 AM when labor was in full swing and was at my side until the moment of birth in early afternoon. She visited us a few days after the birth to see that all was well. She really helped me and my husband to feel prepared and confident and she was a gem during labor. I would definitely recommend a doula for any woman giving birth, VBAC or not. The doula we used is not taking new clients right now, but Birthways can give you referrals. I think most doulas meet with you and your partner before being hired to see if you all feel it is a good match. It is important to feel comfortable and to see if you are on the same page about labor issues, etc. We paid $800 for her services. At a time when we don't have any extra cash, this was still money very well spent. I hope this is helpful. Good luck and congratulations. Another Mom
    I am writing regarding the request for a doula for a VBAC posted last week. I am doula and with personal VBAC experience. I had a wonderful VBAC one year ago and would love to work with you. Please feel free to call me or write regarding your upcoming birth. My email is BirthSpirit AT prodigy.net and my phone number is 841-4079. Michlene
    I would like to recommend Karen Hill. SHe is a licensed massage therapist, and as well as a (relatively)new Mom. She brings experience from both these livelyhoods to her career as a Doula, and she is incredibly sweet to boot. She is also training to be a birth educator, so she really brings a lot to the table. I only have her work number (510) 222.2500 (for a massage) but they can arrange to have her call you! Give her a try! Shahana

    2006 Recommendations

    March 2006

    I HIGHLY recommend Nicki Bonifilio as a doula. She is DONA- certified, and she is just plain wonderful. Calm, confident, encouraging, knowledgable ... everything you want in a doula. Her website makes it seem like she's a bit new age-y, but she is extremely down-to-earth and very very easy to work with. She is busy, tho and may be booked already. Many people secure doulas months in advance. http://www.unraveling.com/birth.html a very satisfied mom

    March 2006

    I would highly like to recommend our postpartum doula who is also a doula, Ann Regan Haynes. If I had met her before we had our doula in place, I would have loved to have her instead of the doula we did have. We were fortunate to have her for our postpartum doula. She was absolutely wonderful supporting us in our transition into a family and made it infinitely more enjoyable. But the reason I feel she would be a great doula as well, and someone like you are describing is because we had extensive conversations regarding my doula experience--my doula was very upset my labor was induced by pitocin and mainly because she felt it would be necessary for me to have pain meds because of the stronger contractions. I told Ann how insulting and angry it made me feel to not have the support of my doula since it was my OB/Gyn who wanted to have me induced. An OB/Gyn who I had seen for fifteen years and really trusted. Ann told me that it sounded like the doula had her own philosophy, but that she should have done what I wanted regardless and not let it intrude upon my labor. I also told Ann of my friend's doula horror story, where her doula actually argued with the doctors and nurses and antagonized her husband--totally stressing out my friend who ended up needing an emergency C-section. Ann said these things should not happen and explained to me that the doula's job is support the mother period. And she said unfortunately she has heard other stories like these. I know she has had numerous experiences being a doula in this area, and I am sure she could provide you with references if you like. You are welcome to contact me: 510-499-9896 or Ann Regan Haynes directly at anndoula@yahoo.com or cell:510-847-9743. Best of luck! Lucie

    March 2006

    Re: Non New Agey doula for Alta Bates Wanted I highly recommend my doula Chris Gonzales. She was very supportive of me and whatever decisions I wanted to make. I don't know that she has any specific medical training but she has been a doula and a doula educator for a long time. She always used the actual terms for what was happening. No talk of ''vibes''. She helped me to formulate a birth plan before the big day so I had a better idea of what I wanted. She was very helpful and not ''new agey'' at all. I interviewed one doula who went on and on about the ''sisterhood'' of women giving birth and the natural way that women can squat in a field surronded by their mothers and sisters etc. -- Fine for some, but not my cup of tea. As it turned out Chris was not able to be with me for much of my labor and sent her backup -- Felicia Roche who was also excellent and a really great advocate throughout. Good luck with your search.

    Linda Jean Cranmer

    Feb 2005

    I am considering hiring Linda Jean as our doula for the birth of our first child. Does anyone have any expereinces with her and her services? Thank you so much! first time mom

    We used Linda Jean for our 2nd, which was a VBAC and she was great. I felt like she provided the support we needed and wasn't too invasive. I ended up with an epidural after 46 hours, but she did try to stall me, as I had really wanted a drug free birth. She certainly wasn't encouraging drugs but wasn't totally anti them. I would use her again. sally
    I had the good fortune to have Linda Jean Cranmer as a doula for the birth of my two children, who are now 7 and 9. There are no words adequate to describe the exceptional talent, creativity, warmth, kindness, skill and magical powers of Linda Jean. My birth experiences were the best hours of my life and I attribute much of this to her confidence, skill and ability to work in a holistic way within the confines of a traditional system. I am a single mother and she provided with with the most amazing welcome into motherhood that one could imagine. She also was the doula for my sister in her two births and helped make the experience (both challenging births)wonderful for both her and her husband. I don't think you will find anyone more talented than Linda Jean Cranmer. Good luck in your birth, Sally sslome
    Linda Jean was my labor coach for our first child, who is now 11. She has been labor coach for several close friends and acquaintances since. She is very professional, warm, experienced, supportive, and intuitive. Plus, she took great pictures of the birth. I would have had her as my labor coach for my second child, now 3, but she didn't feel I needed a labor coach the second time. She nevertheless gave me a lot of support before and after that birth. I recommend her most highly. Fran

    Virginia Duplessis

    Feb 2006

    Can anyone tell me about their experience with Virginia Duplessis? We are thinking about hiring her as our doula. This is our first baby, we are delivering at Alta Bates, and I would like to avoid pain medication and uneccesary medical interventions. In terms of our 'dream doula': we want someone who can be a cheerleader for me, help keep my husband calm, explain medical procedures we don't understand, and basically has a positive and energetic personality. Thanks, Excited (& and nervous) mother-to-be

    Virginia was my doula for my first child and I can't say enough wonderful things about her. I can speak from my own birth experience and also as a prenatal yoga teacher who hears many many birth stories from women who have attended my classes. (I teach prenatal yoga at Alta Bates.)I see and know many wonderful doulas in the Bay Area. If you have met with two or three doulas and you feel that something clicks with one of the doulas, go with it. Once you feel that connection, she will be there with you through the process 150%. warmly, Nila
    We love Virginia Duplessis. Virginia was our doula in early November for the birth of our daughter (our first baby). I labored and delivered with no pain medication and basically no medical intervention (only spent 30 minutes in the hospital before delivering since I labored at home until I was 10 cm dilated!)Virginia's warm, supportive presence and various laboring positions and techniques were invaluable. I spent a lot of time literally and figuraqtively leaning (and hanging) on her for support and really looked to her to help me make it through. After the birth of our daughter Virginia was a huge help with logistical matters in the hospital--helping us settle into our room and ''running errands'' such as getting me water and food. And she provided much needed support in the early weeks postpartum. Virginia supported my husband as well and allowed him to be a real part of the whole experience--we both felt really safe and calm with Virginia by our side. The birth of our daughter was truly a beautiful experience and we have Virginia to thank for that! Good luck to you. Kathy
    Virginia was my doula and I highly recommend her. She was everything we needed her to be
    To the mom looking for a doula, I highly recommend Virginia Duplessis as a calm, inspiring, friendly and knowledgable doula. She assisted with the birth of my son back in May 2005 and was fabulous. I had a different doula for the birth of my first daughter and can say that Virginia was an outstanding partner in our birthing process. In particular, I found her calm strength very helpful in what was a very painful labor (the worst of my three labors) her massage technique and suggestions for positions were perfect for me. My partner appreciated her calm and friendly manner and her knowledge of hospitals and medical systems in general is very helpful. She is a mom herself which creates that necessary sisterhood. Good luck! Megan
    Virginia was my doula and I highly recommend her. She was everything we needed her to be, a calm and reassuring presence for me and a help to my husband. During labor she gave us a lot of space for my husband and I to work together but she definately stepped in when I needed a different kind of support and my husband needed a break. Virginia is fun, easygoing a caring. You'll be glad you worked with her. Kelly
    Welcome to motherhood! I don't know Virginia but I know someone else who fits your dream doula description -- Carolynn Melchert. She and I lived on the same block and raised our kids together and she's one of the loveliest women on earth. Calm, radiant, skillfull and a great support for anyone entering parenthood. I can most easily get my hands on her husband Seth's email address, dmelchert@earthlink.net. He'll pass your message on. ann
    Virginia attended our birth in March 2005. It was also our first baby and I had a natural child birth at Alta Bates. She was simply marvelous!

    Virginia was everything I needed. She was supportive, centered, focused, positive, quiet, strong, patient, full of tips, I can go on and on. I knew she was there if I needed her. Just as important, my husband knew she was there for him too! And she gave us plenty of private time. She was so focused on me and kept me calm.

    Without her, my husband would have never been able to eat lunch when we were laboring at home nor pick me flowers from the garden. He swears that he will never have another baby without her help!

    I would not have been able to have a natural birth without her and the midwife, Jeri Zukoski.

    I hope you choose to hire her! She's the super doula!

    Good luck to you and feel free to contact me. susan

    Dear soon-to-be-first time Mom; In reply to Virginia Duplessis as a Doula, she fits your descrition to the ''T''. She was all that and more at the birth of our first baby last January. She is committed, caring and thorough in her pre, during and post Doula services. She really helped my husband feel part of the birth as well. She videotaped per our request and had balloons waiting on our doorstep when we got home. (Albeit my birth was only 5 hours). Grab her before she is booked! Connie

    Chris Gonzalez

    July 2004

    Has anyone had any experience with Chris Gonzalez? Chris is a doula who lives in Hayward. I am also looking for info on Felicia Roche, a doula in Alameda. Thanks!

    [Editor Note: see also Felicia Roche recommendations]

    I used Chris Gonzalez as my doula this past May for the birth of my first child. Chris was amazing. I had a relatively fast labor and delivery, and there is no way that I could have done it without her. I had interviewed several other doulas, but none of them felt quite right until I met Chris. The moment she walked in my door I experienced her warmth and support. She was clearly interested in who I was as a person and throughout our work together she always took the time to ask how I was doing. I went into the birth without any goals beyond having a positive experience. Chris was completely supportive of this goal and didn't push having a natural birth versus using drugs or an epidural. During the two prenatal meetings we had, Chris really took the time to get to know me and my spouse so she could make sure that both of our needs were met during the delivery. She helped us come up with a birth plan that we felt good about. During the labor and delivery Chris not only supported me and helped me stay focused, but she was also able to provide guidance to my spouse so that he could be involved. Chris respected my wishes, and made sure that my birth plan and requests were honored by everyone involved in the delivery. I had complete confidence in Chris and felt secure that she was looking out for me while I was in the hospital. Feel free to email me if you would like to know more about Chris. She was wonderful and I wouldn't hesitate to use her again if I have another child. jh
    Chris Gonzalez was our doula when my son was born three years ago, and she was fabulous.

    I'm not a touchy-feely type nor a New Age-y type; Chris meshed perfectly with my more practical outlook. She knew just how to support both me and my husband through a long labor that ultimately ended in a surgical birth when it was discovered that the baby was breech.

    We re-hired Chris for my recent second pregnancy with the intention of doing a VBAC. Unfortunately, I ended up having a scheduled section this time around -- my daughter was *also* breech and there were other complications -- so Chris didn't attend the birth, but she was still a big help in the last weeks of my pregnancy as we attempted to turn the baby and as I came to grips with the decision to schedule the surgery.

    I recommend her without hesitation. Holly

    I had Chris Gonzalez as my doula in 2002. she was GREAT! I can't find your original posting, so I don't know what specific questions you had... but if you e-mail me I'd be happy to tell you about my experience. Virginia

    Considering using Felicia Roche

    July 2004

    I highly recommend Felicia Roche. She was with me for the birth of both of my children. She is truly amazing!! If you would like to know more feel free to contact me directly! Jasmin

    October 2003

    I'm considering using Felicia Roche as my doula. Has anyone used her as a doula in the past and what was your experience like? km

    If you can get her you are so lucky! She helped me with TWO births. She completely tunes in to what you want and need and is there every second helping you. She is calming, experienced, etc. She also works well with a variety of personalities (doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists). She has this Mary Poppins bag of tricks that she uses for all the different needs. It has everything from cooling Evian water spray for my face (I was HOT) to a hand fan, lavender, cool compresses, music, etc. She massaged my feet & hands, expressed my needs to the hospital staff, stopped my shivers, cooled me down, etc. I have never had someone so attentive in my life. She really helped make my experience a wonderful and amazing journey. I can't say more about Felecia. elizabeth
    I had Felicia as my doula for my daughter's birth. She was incredible! She was totally tuned in to me the whole time. Calm and composed throughout and firm when I needed her to be. She's knowledgeable about birthing and people. Worked with me and guided me but never pushed or manipulated. Always made me feel taken care of and listened to.

    In my case, my contractions came every two minutes from the start and kept at it for over 9 hours. I was also having back labor which I didn't know at the time. By the time my husband called her to come to the hospital I was panicked. I didn't know what was going on and the contractions seemed to be coming too fast and hard too early. From the minute she arrived her knowledgable and calming manner set me at ease and helped me feel back in control. She also helped my husband and sister who assisted in the birth feel and work like as a great team.

    I can't say enough about Felicia. If I ever have another child I would want her at my side! Elizabeth

    I used Felicia for the birth of my son last year. I never would have gotten thru my labor without her, and truly believe I would have had a c-section if it weren't for her coaching, advice and support. She was absolutely FABULOUS!!!! Felicia had lots of invaluable tips to help me get thru every stage of labor and every contraction. I had an extremely long labor and she even came over to our house and spent the first 5+ hours laboring with me at home before we headed to the hospital. Both my mom and husband were also present during my labor and she worked great with both of them too. We are expecting our second child and I have already contacted her. I can't say enough good things about her and would be glad to talk to you more if you have any questions or concerns. Jasmin

    Joan Taylor

    April 2005

    I'm considering using Joan Taylor as my doula. Has anyone used her as a doula in the past and what was your experience like? E

    I used Joan as a post-partum doulla for around three months. She was great! I was quite sick and the baby really fussy. She handled both of us plus a variety of realatives and my other daughter. She had lots of the natural remedies (which worked quite well) and appropriately knew when to get some medical intervention. She was usually calm, quite effusive and touchy feely but also respects your boundaries. All in all she is a strong but gentle soul with good experience and ideas. If you want more info please contact my email. rossbeth

    Considering using Constance Williams

    Feb 2003

    I'm considering hiring Constance Williams as my doula. I've seen one nice recommendation for her on the site but wondered if more of you out there have had good (or bad) experiences with her. Thanks. monica

    Hi, I hired Constance as my doula. I am due in about 4 weeks and have had a couple of prenatal meetings with her. So far I really like her style and she is very easy to get along with. Of course, I would be very interested in hearing other opinions as well because I have not yet gone through labor. She seems to be great so far! a_m_k
    We have hired Constance as our doula (we're due any day now). We think she is great and so far our money seems well spent. She has already met with us several times (at least 2hrs each session)and follows up with me every week. She is very caring, knowledgeable, and is well known in the doula community. The most important part is that we both feel very comfortable with her. I'm looking forward to her being a part of our birth and expect that she will be a great support person. Elisa
    First off, let me say that I think doulas are great (seriously, I do), and I notice that people ask for recommendations alot. but if you're like me and can't (or in my case - couldn't) afford to have a professional come help you through labor and the days afterwards, I think you can have a healthy and happy and supportive birthing experience without one.

    My husband and I don't have a lot of money - so instead of hiring someone, I asked my oldest friend and another good friend who had gone through labor before to assist my primary birthing coach. Then I was lucky enough to have my mom present as well. All three women were incredibly supportive and provided me with the nurturing and advocacy I needed and the rest my husband needed so he could be ''present'' when I really needed him. we called them at three in the morning and they came over and stayed with us until well after I delivered that afternoon. plus, they continue to present in my life weeks afterwards and will always be aunties for my son. So if you can't afford a doula, don't feel like your birth experience will be any less significant. That's just my two cents. Jen

    When I was pregnant with my daughter (4 years ago) I took a childbirth class through Birthways and Constance attended the class as the labor partner of a pregnant teenager. I found her views on pregnancy and childbirth to be very one-sided, to the point of being militant about natural childbirth. Mind you, I myself was using a midwife and was pro-natural childbirth! Constance seemed to have a patent disdain for any medical involvement in the birthing process, and even made disparaging remarks about women who needed drugs for pain relief. I always wondered if it was a coincidence that her teenage partner dropped out of the class--or if it was Constance's strong opinions and ongoing commentary. The icing on the cake was Constance's assertion that SIDS was linked to babies' spines getting out of alignment during the birthing process, and that newborns should see chiropractors to be aligned after birth.

    I wonder if you've talked to many other midwives in your search for someone you're comfortable with. I recommend Lindy Johnson highly (my midwife, Robin Hale, used to work with Lindy). I was looking for a midwife who would support my goals for a non- interventive, personal and powerful birth experience; but also someone who could discuss the pros and cons of any medical procedure and give me some balanced advice. If that's what you want, too, please be sure that Constance can see both sides!! My experience (though it's been 4 years ago!) is that she can't. Christina

    Hi, I just wanted to add a strong recommendation for Constance Williams. The point about her having 'too many' clients at one time might be valid and I was especially concerned about this because my husband was traveling during the '5 wk zone of due date ranges'...but in all her years of service, she's only had 1 instance where 2 babies came during the same night and she always has backup. We met with her several times prior to our son's birth and met the back-up doula. I had a very difficult and fast 'back labor' once my water broke and then 4 hours of pushing because he wasn't in the best position..I can honestly say that she got me through all of that and was my rock. My husband was there and wonderful but he too was so grateful for Constance being there. This was in addition to the doctor, baby's nurse and midwife, who were all wonderful but it was Constance who helped all of us the most. And then she came over after he was born to make us an amazing home-cooked meal at our house and helped give the baby his first bath, etc. We can't say enough good things about her and are so blessed to have met her during that special time. Hope this helps! Jennifer

    More reviews of doulas

    June 2006

    Jenny Kepler has an innate gift as a doula. As my doula, she provided me calm, steady support. She came into my birthing room and transformed it from a hospital room into a delicious-smelling place with music and interesting, quiet conversation. When decisions needed to be made, my partner and I had an advocate in Jenny – we felt like a three-person team, which was very empowering. While the Labor & Delivery staff at Kaiser Walnut Creek was excellent, we wanted to make this *our* birth experience, driven by our values. When unfamilar issues came up, Jenny was able to help us make more informed decisions, providing information and drawing from her experience so that our birth experience remained in line with our values and wishes, even though it differed from how we imagined it.

    Jenny also unobtrusively massaged me just where I needed it, and showed my partner and I acupressure points to help along my labor. She stayed with us throughout a 43-hour labor, and was a constant source of positive energy – so much so that my partner and I don’t know what we would have done without her! If you are looking for a doula, Jenny Kepler jenny_kepler[at]yahoo.com has my highest recommendation. Robin

    May 2006

    I had the most wonderful experience with my doula Anne Delp. She met with me at my house before my due date. She was open to whatever method I wanted to go with.

    My intention was to have a natural birth. I'd been taking hypnotherapy classes and she was prepared for how I wanted my birth to go.

    My water broke but no contractions came and I was worried the hospital would push lots of pitocin. I called Anne before going to the hospital and shared my fear. She offered that sometimes they can give a small amount of pitocin just to get the contractions started. What a great piece of advice! The nurse at the hospital wanted to start me on heavy pitocin, based on Anne's advice as asked to speak to my doctor and he confirmed I could do just a small amount.

    During my contractions, she helped me through several ways to effectively work through painful contractions. She helped me to walk around, sit on the ball, make noises to relieve the stress. My mom and husband were both there. They love me very much but were not equipped with the knowledge she had to help me.

    Midway through my heavy contractions, I decided I really couldn't handle the natural birth as much as I'd hoped and asked for an epidural. Anne weighed my original wishes of the natural birth and encouraged me that I was almost there, then she asked my husband how married I was to the natural birth and he told her not to that extent. She easily rolled with the punches and helped me through my delivery after the epidural. My wishes were her objective. On top of it all her rates were very reasonable.

    I highly recommend her to anyone considering using a doula. Bonnie

    March 2006

    Highest recommendation for Anna Bahnson, a very knowledgeable dula that helped us. We had done an extensive Bradley class and felt pretty informed, but knew we needed someone there with a clear head at the birth, and it made all the difference in feeling comfortable that she was there to help us make decisions, I felt great trust in her and was able to relax. We interviewed a few, and she asked great questions, and was fantastic, pragmatic and great communicator. She worked well with our medical staff, also takes excellent b/w photos. 510-459-7673 Another dula and hypnotherapist I met with for just hypnosis was Betsy Appell. Nice, smart lady and my birth was without drugs and not very painful, so, it worked well for me. Carolyn

    March 2006

    I am happy to recommend Betsy Appell as a doula. She was at my home birth 6 months ago and I can't imagine enduring the experience without her. Her presence during 8 hours of one minute on one minute off contractions was indispensible. Because of her deep meditation practice she is unflappable and very calming, without dismissing the emotions of the moment. She arrives when you ask with a bag of tricks for a wide variety of situations that can happen. She is the one that showed my husband how to push in my hips in a very specific way, which we used for the rest of the labor, that we would have never figured out on our own. She worked well with the midwives, but was clearly there for me first. The best part was that when my husband had to find or do something for the midwife, he had the peace of mind knowing that Betsy was there with me. I had a very physical labor and needed much more than just emotional support. Betsy and my husband both had sore muscles after the birth as a testament to their dedication in easing my discomfort (and therefore my fear). Even if you are having a home birth, consider having Betsy as your doula. I plan to have her (if she is available) at my future home births. She also teaches hypnobirthing as part of her fee, as well as prenatal yoga at the Y, which allowed me to develop a relationship with her before the birth. Her website is http://berkeleydoula.com/. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about Betsy. Cynthia

    Jan 2006

    I would just like to wholeheartedly recommend my doula Nicki Bonfilio. Her calm manner helped guide us through 22 extremely long hours of labor. Even though we took birthing classes, I don't think I could have made it without Nicki's guidance, reassurance, and general wonderfulness. She respected our birth plan, made gentle and informed suggestions, and helped us navigate the uncertainty of birth with professionalism and ease. We will definitely ask her to be with us at the birth of our second child! Her phone number is 415.558.8471 beretran

    Recommendations from 2001 and Earlier

    Linda Almond-Nichols

    I would like to recommend the doula who assited in the birth of my daughter in April. Her name is Linda Almond-Nichols. Her number is 925-228-8712. She was recommended to me by Janaki Costello and has had 20 years of experience. My husband and I both felt she did a wonderful job and felt very relaxed with her.. Linda is very warm, supportive, calm and easy going. She really helped facilitate ways for my husband to support me and participate in my labor, she advocated for us with the staff in a non-dogmatic way, and let me make the choices I wanted about my birth without pressure. Amzel (Nov 2001)

    Janaki Costello 2001: Janaki's email address is Janaki22 at earthlink dot net
    Nov 2001

    We would have recommended Janaki - we took her birthing class and found it to be very enjoyable and educational. We would have been interested in using her Doula services too, but she was not taking clients when Charlotte was due. Her partner Carol Shattuck-Rice is also a Doula and we have heard good things about her. We know Carol and used her services as a Post-partum Doula and she was very helpful.

    Date: Jan 1999
    From: Janaki Costello

    I just wanted people to know that I am part of Loving Arms Doula Services with Carol Shattuck-Rice and Alice Elliott. We teach an eight-week childbirth education series in my home and people are welcome to contact me by e-mail or phone (510) 525-1155 for information. I am also an Int. Board Certified Lactation Consultant in private practice and I teach breastfeeding classes and do consultations and breastpump rentals and sales. And of course, I have private doula clients.

    I am so flattered by what people have written about me on the list!! They have all been terrific to work with and make my work easy!!

    I had a very unusual experience with Janaki. She wasn't my doula, but rather came to my assistance via La Leche League after my son's birth in February 1998. Through a series of misadventures -- hemorrhaging during C-section and low iron for me, a very bad latch-on for the first week or so for me and my baby, all or some of these things, I guess, -- I presented myself to Janaki post-partum with lots of nursing problems. My son was losing weight and I was a wreck, nursing for an hour every other hour, yet he was still losing weight. The nursing hurt like a son of a gun, too, and the whole situation seemed to be more dire by the day. I'd wanted to nurse so badly, but it was going south at the rate of about 110 mph! I felt tremendous fear for my son and disappointment in myself for appearing to be a total and utter flop at what had always been described to me by my own mother as "a breeze." To the point, Janaki was like an angel. My husband found her, and she responded very nicely to him, which underscores that she is comfortable around the fathers, too (very important!). Right away, she came from the East Bay to my apartment in San Francisco and helped me with latching on. She recommended things to eat and drink to get that milk production going, proving herself to be very knowledgeable. She called and checked on me, coached and encouraged me. It was a dark period for me and she just helped me so much. I was very emotional and she handled it so well, with a lot of candor, sympathy and courage. She made some good calls and went about helping me in a very measured way, thoroughly and calmly. While I'd felt some lack of support from a few others at the time, Janaki was working on behalf of me and the baby, as a unit, which is surprisingly rare and important.

    I know this isn't the birthing part you were probably thinking of hearing about, but this post-partum help is equally crucial since sometimes things don't go perfectly during delivery and afterward. It's really important to have someone such as Janaki to lean on. She was the essence of capableness and optimism, her credentials which would see you well through any part of the process!

    I liked Janaki so much and felt so soothed by her that my husband and I decided that if we ever had another baby, we would call her right away to hire her as our doula.
    Lynn (2/00)

    Our family highly recommends Carol Shattuck-Rice & Janicke Costello. Carol was our doula and Janicke was our lactation consultant. We hired them for both of our little cherubs.(one 3.5yrs & the other 11mos) They are F A B U L O U S! They are both very loving, SINCERE, knowledgable & dependable. In our opinion, they are the paradigm in their profession. Please don't hesitate to e-mail us for specifics. If we have a third child.....We would definitely employ them again. DOULAS ARE "A GOOD THING!"
    Stanley (2/00)
    Date: Dec 29, 1998
    From: Jeanne

    Janaki was our Doula for the birth of our daughter in 1995. She is is a Certified Doula, Childbirth Educator, and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

    Date: Sept 13, 1997
    From: Catherine

    Regarding the request for a doula recommendation: I HIGHLY recommend Janaki Costello. She can be reached at home (510-525-1155). I cannot praise her highly enough. She was invaluable to my husband and I during both the birth process, and later giving practical advice and much encouragement regarding nursing. Janaki is both highly skilled and very caring and accepting. Good luck!

    Date: Sept 13, 1997
    From: Laura Beth

    I cannot reccomend our doula highly enough. I also cannot reccomend simply having a doula highly enough. Our doula was Janaki Costello (525-1155). She will meet with you 3 or 4 times before the labor, comes and helps during the labor, stays afterwards, is a certified lactation consultant, won't leave until you have had a good latch-on, and comes to your house a couple of times in the next few days (after the milk has come in) to make sure everything is OK.

    I am not kidding, when she talked to me during the contractions, they hurt less. She is a wonderful, caring person. She will take care of you, tell your partner that all of that groaning and screaming is normal, and stay with YOU even after your partner is mesmerized by the new baby but you still need someone to hold your hand. She totally follows your lead, but will also talk and ask questions of the hosptial staff for you.

    Other benefits of hiring Janaki: Her back up is equally wonderful (Carol Shattuck-Rice) in case Janki is sick or something. and best of all, after the birth she wrote up the whole story of the day based on notes she took when I wasn't looking.

    She really made our birth experience great.

    Laura Beth

    Meghan Lewis

    Nov 2001

    We used a wonderful doula named Meghan Lewis. She came recommended to me by a friend who had worked with Meghan several months before me. Meghan is also a certified massage therapist, so a prenatal or postpartum massage is part of the deal. She was the right mix of crunchy/pragmatic for us, as she helped us get through a painful labor (I was stuck at 8 cm for 7 hours) without any medication. She was a great presence in the labor/delivery room; supported both me and my husband; and got along with the nurses very well. She also took lots of pictures during the whole time, which was a great memento to have afterwards. She charged us $775 back in April. Her number is 510-433-7402. Good luck! Teresa

    Treesa McLean

    My doula was Treesa McLean-510-581-1013) I would recommend Treesa . Liz (May 2001)

    Doula Recommended: Treesa McLean, (510) 581-1013 Laurel
    Judy Shalev

    I can highly recommend Judy Shalev as a doula to help women in labor. She also does postpartum care. She's warm, loving and encouraging and is supportive of woman trying to avoid drugs and pitocin. She is not a midwife, though. She helps women during labor. Her number is 510-763-9362. -- Fran (June 1999)

    Carol Shattuck-Rice

    My recommendation of Carol Shattuck-Rice is still on the web-site, and it's still true. I really liked working with her. I found her a nice blend of traditional and natural approaches. She used Rescue Remedy (homeopathic drops) on me, and it worked wonders, for instance. But when the nurses suggested a shot of Nubain, she was supportive of my decision to go ahead with it. I thought she was wonderful. Dawn

    Our family highly recommends Carol Shattuck-Rice & Janicke Costello. Carol was our doula and Janicke was our lactation consultant. We hired them for both of our little cherubs.(one 3.5yrs & the other 11mos) They are F A B U L O U S! They are both very loving, SINCERE, knowledgable & dependable. In our opinion, they are the paradigm in their profession. Please don't hesitate to e-mail us for specifics. If we have a third child.....We would definitely employ them again. DOULAS ARE "A GOOD THING!"
    Stanley (2/00)
    I used Carol Shattuck-Rice as my doula in June 1998. I thought she was terrific. What did I like: We(my husband and I) met her several times in advance for dinner or such at our house. She was very warm,friendly, informative, let me ask 1000 questions, funny, supportive, reassuring. We let her know what we wanted to do during birth (natural childbirth no medical interference) and she was more than game to help make this happen once we were at the hospital. She came to our house once labor had started and we thought it was time for her to help me. She massaged me, talked to me, told me to do this and that to be more comfortable. Once at the hospital she reamined with me the whole time. I had a long 20 hour labor and almost 3 hours of pushing. Carol intervened several times with the nurses after conferring with me and realinzing I wasn't getting what i wanted. I eventually had an epidural which she gave me her opinion about (and we had talked about this in advance and I knew she would support what I wanted) and helped me labor as long as I could without it. But, the time came and I choose the epidural. She was terrifically supportive throughout and stayed with me well after my other suppport people(except my husband) left. I would highly reccomend her. Re: Janaki. She was Carol's back up and I met her an liked her. I did consult with her sevaral times after my son was born re:nursing issues. SHe was very Helpful. Good luck.
    J.H. (2/00)
    Date: Sept 13, 1997
    From: Dawn

    I've said it before, and I'll probably say it again: Get a doula! Labors with doulas, I'm told, are statistically 1/2 as long as labors without! Certainly that was true for me (my 1st--and so far only--labor was 9 hours, about 1/2 the national average, but evidently the average for those with doulas in attendence--I'm sorry but I don't have the reference for this figure).

    As to specific doulas, I really enjoyed working with Carol Shattuck-Rice. She's located in the Berkeley area, and knows the procedures and staff of Alta Bates very well. She's warm and caring, has had kids of her own, and has attended over 40 births (perhaps more than 50 by now). She knows some homeopathic and natural remedies to try for various circumstances, and to top it all off, she's a great photographer, if you want that (I have some wonderful photos of the actual birth--but she won't do it if you don't want it). Her phone number is 527-7210.

    Good luck!
    Dawn

    Alice Elliot

    11/99
    I gave birth to my son in 8/98 with Hsiu-Li as my m/w and used Alice Elliot as my doula. We ended up having an induction, but with Alice's, Hsiu-Li's, and my husband's support, it was still a great birth (6 hours long, one shot of Nubian for pain relief). I highly recommend Alice Elliot. You can e-mail me to get her number, but I'm sure she's listed in the phone book as well. Good luck!

    Regarding Doulas:

    We have a 38 hour newborn girl.

    Our experience with Alice Elliot as a doula was nothing short of phenomenally great.

    Between Alice and Lindy Johnson, CNM, and the staff of Alta-Bates we had a once in a lifetime amazingly great first time birth experience.

    I hope this doesn't seem too vague or ambivalent. Jerry ( Sept 16, 1997)

    Sarah Frigah

    I highly recommend Sarah Frigah, a wonderful doula and a terrific person to be with during your birth. Sarah is lively, warm, caring, calm, and very knowledgeable about what she is doing. She is very strong and will be wonderful in any crisis (God forbid) situation. I couldn't imagine giving birth without her wonderful presence. If she hasn't moved yet-she is at 232-3021. Hava (Nov 2001)

    Esther Gallagher

    I had a terrific doula after the birth of our daughter 10 months ago. Her name is Esther Gallagher at 415/821-4490. She is caring, warm, down to earth, and a terrific source of nurturing and advice. She is also a lactation consultant so her help was invaluable as we started nursing. I was surprised at how completely comfortable I was having her around at such in intimate time. She came for about 3-4 hours/day, we would sit and talk (when we went for our first visit to the pediatrician we had no questions as we had processed so much with Esther...), then she would go into power mode clean the house and prepare delicious food. She was fine with coming over from San Francisco. She was a god-send and I would instantly engage her again if we have a second child. Mostly, I really loved and trusted her advice. Her approach is very open and listening, but she definitely has a point of view about trusting and listening to the needs of the baby which really influenced my parenting style.
    Nancy (2/00)

    Valerie Ingalls

    Valerie Ingalls was my doula last fall. I highly recommend her--she has a very special quality that is just wonderful to share at a time that is really quite intimate. So she fit right in the situation, supporting what our wishes were (for a birth plan), and making suggestions throughout my (very long) labor that really helped. She is a midwife, too--just doesn't have her license in California yet. She has two very wonderful sons of her own. (May 2001)

    Linda Jones-Mixon

    Nov 2001

    My wife and I had a terrific experience giving birth at Summit Hospital with a Doula. Her name is Linda Jones Mixon. She is patient, caring, wonderful and her communication style is friendly and to the point. We just think she is great. We still see her from time to time and our daughter Charlotte -- whom she helped to deliver just adores seeing her. Besides being a Doula, Linda owns and operates a baby store in Berkely called Pickles and Ice Cream on N. Shattuck at Virginia st.

    You can reach Linda at: 510-540-7210 or 510-232-7678. When you call her -- if you call her -- you can certainly say you were referred by Adam and Melissa. Good luck, Adam

    I'd like to second the recommendation for Linda Jones Mixon as a wonderful labor and delivery doula. We found her to be almost laid-back in her first-impression communication style, but straightforward and candid whenever we asked her questions about what to expect, especially with regard to the environment at Alta Bates where we delivered. She has a great sense of humor, too.

    Linda came over at 10 a.m. and supported us through early labor, then recommended when we ought to go the hospital. When we arrived, all labor-and-delivery rooms *and* triage were full, but the nurses knew her well and trusted her when she said I really needed a room asap. She was right on the money; when they got me in I was already 9+ cm! Things got kind of hung up from then on, but she remained cool and collected throughout -- a great sounding board and support for my husband, while I was off in my own little world. She stayed through till it was all over -- 2 a.m. Though we had a difficult labor and delivery, we felt the whole experience was very positive thanks to Linda's assistance and support for all of our decisions, and her reassurance that we were in charge of those decisions and shouldn't feel rushed by the medical staff. Her 10+ years of experience attending hundreds of births showed in her unflappability throughout, as well as her pragmatic philosophy of attending the birth with "just her hands," no bag of tricks necessary.

    Funny -- as we look back through the photos, there's Linda, with her sunglasses perched on her head through the whole thing.

    This was four months ago -- she charges in the upper end of the $500-1000 range that others have mentioned for doula services.

    From: Linda (3/98)

    I HIGHLY recommend Linda Jones-Mixon as a doula. "The First Six Weeks" 510-232-7678 510-613-4730 pager fst6wks at aol dot com email She was our saviour; what more can be said! I used her for post-partum care, but know of others who used her during the birth.

    I have recommended her to 5 or 6 others. All have used her and adored her as well.

    Patty Lapinska

    Re: Doula Patty Lapinska: We used her 20 mos ago, and she was great. Her fee included several pre-birth visits to the house, as well as one post-partum. Though my husband and sister in-law were present, they felt like she was very good at telling them how they could best help. We met her partner after we had already decided to use Patty. In retrospect we might have even been more comfortable with her, so be sure to interview both of them. Janet (May 2001)

    Patty was the Doula who assisted us at the birth of our now 3 year old. She is great -- smart, sympathetic, supportive of natural childbirth but not dogmatic about it -- will support whatever the couple decides. She is a great advocate. We had to make some decisions on interventions and she helped us sort through our options and make our own decisions, rather then be pressured by the doctors. I would strongly recommend her. Kathy (May 2001)
    Kim Lyons

    I highly recommend Kim Lyons, the doula who attended the birth of my third child two months ago. She is a massage therapist (need I say more?) with a very calming presence She brought a birthing ball, which was very helpful, did acupressure to keep the labor moving along, and I got through the birth with no drugs and no stitches! She also includes an infant massage session after the baby is born. Meri (Nov 2001)

    Lucia Meager

    My labor doula was Lucia Meager (510-524-4825) who also works as a post-partum doula. She took care of my husband and I during the early phase of labor and throughout. Her calm presence and comforting touch (the best foot massage of my life) ensured that my husband and I were in a state of relaxation and trust from the beginning of the labor to the end. Lucia is a dream doula: skillful, mindful, helpful in every regard. I know others who have hired Lucia as a post partum doula (cooking, cleaning, holding baby, doing whatever is needed to give mother rest and peace of mind) and were grateful that they had Lucia in their lives after the baby was born. Justine (5/01)

    Jeanne Racik

    I highly recommend Jeanne Racik as a Labor Support/Postpartum Doula. She assisted me at the birth of my daughter and Jeanne was very caring. She was willing to let me create the birth that worked for me and my family without putting any judgements on my choices. She also helped after the birth and it was beautiful to see her ease with my newborn. You can call Jeanne at 510-594-4363 or contact me for more high praise:)! (Mar 2001)

    Mary Rossi

    I did have a wonderful doula who SAVED the birth for me and helped make it a great experience. Her name is Mary Rossi, and I don't have her number with me, but you can find her through New Life Midwifery. NLM is in the phone book.

    Jennifer Starling

    I'd like to recommend my doula, Jennifer Starling. She trained with Patti Lipinski and has been working as a doula for a few years. She really helped me get through my very long labor and made my family comfortable, too. When I delivered in February, she was charging a sliding scale of $4-700, whatever you can pay. That included two pre-labor visits, one post-labor visit, and of course, being there for the birth. Jennifer is at: 530-1660. Whitney (Nov 2001)

    My doula was Jennifer Starling. We hired her because she was genuine and pleasant. Also, her fee was