Mary – Ossining, NY

“I had my first child at 36 weeks. Even though I was anticipating his birth for months, my husband and I were completely shocked and in a state of panic when my water broke a month ahead of schedule.  The one childbirth class we had taken didn’t quite prepare us for what we were about to encounter. I didn’t have a specific birth plan.  I wasn’t opposed to getting an epidural, but I wanted to see how far I could make it without one.  I made it about six hours.  For the duration of time I arrived at the hospital to the time I received the epidural,  I was in bed, on my back, trying to breathe through the contractions the best way I knew how.  I didn’t have anyone to suggest getting into different positions, walking, humming, or any other coping mechanisms that would help me get through each wave of contractions. The nurses at the hospital came in and out of the room to offer pain medication and remind me to breathe, but I needed more than that. I needed a Doula. When I became pregnant with my second child, we called Northeast Doulas. Upon meeting Debbie and Jessica, we instantly knew we made the right choice. They listened to our son’s birth story and the concerns we had about the upcoming birth of my daughter. They explained in detail how they would be there to assist us during the labor and delivery, and helped us design a list of birth wishes.  Each time I met with them, I felt less anxious about the labor and more confident in myself. When my water broke at 2 a.m. and my contractions started to come fast and strong, I called Debbie and she was able to quickly assess the situation. In fact, she beat us to the hospital.  She remained calm and collected the entire time, even as I threw up all over her shoes when she helped me out of the car. (Yes, this can happen during labor and is completely normal.  Sorry Debbie!) By the time we made it to the delivery room I could barely see straight.  The contractions were taking over and despite my wish to have a non-medicated natural birth, I found myself wondering how on earth l was going to make it through such intense waves.  Each time I felt a contraction coming, I looked to Debbie.  She helped me to refocus my energy and my breathing.  She reminded me time and time again that I was in fact having the labor I envisioned for myself.  Her words of encouragement, physical strength and assistance helped me stick to my plan.  I was able to have a natural birth without any medication.  From the moment I stepped out of the car until she left the hospital later that day, she never left my side.  I am so proud of myself for sticking to my plan and I am so grateful to have had Debbie’s help.”