We love Heather and Victoria. We worked with 312Doulas as we prepared for the arrival of our first…read morechild. They were fantastic. We engaged them at about 18/20 weeks in the pregnancy and were able to take advantage of the pregnant person weekly zoom meeting (which provided a wonderful support system through the pregnancy), the birth classes (which were more evidence-based and intimate than what my hospital offered), and they were available for any questions (which gave us another opinion outside of our OB). On the day of our birth, my husband was able to engage with them via text and let them know how things were going. Heather arrived at the hospital and was able to offer comfort measures, support, and coaching that helped both my husband and I feel that we could do THIS! :) In addition, they were able to relieve my husband and let him get some sleep and they got me ice and food, etc. Just so kind. Once I started to push, Heather was there to coach us and encourage us and then take pictures of our new family when our baby girl came. Heather had to leave (they work 12-hour shifts) and Victoria slid in, so quickly I didn't realize it was happening and never felt alone. Victoria then stayed to help us breastfeed and get settled in. After our birth, we had a postpartum call to ask any questions and now participate in the new parents' weekly zoom which already has been super valuable. We'd highly recommend working with 312Doulas.

312 Doulas was recommended by a friend, and I'm so glad I listened! My review focuses on my doula…read more(Marie Weiss) and a course my partner and I took as part of our doula package. I delivered 12/19/21, and our little one is just over 2 weeks old. My doula was supportive, knowledgeable, and responsive. I expected a slow labor (first child) but had the opposite. My water broke around 4pm, and contractions came on quick and strong. All Marie needed to see was a screenshot of the app I was using to time my contractions to say, "time to go to the hospital" (my partner and I would have probably held off--so glad we listened!). I arrived 6cm dilated, and she helped me navigate an unmedicated birth (consistent with my birth plan). She offered excellent labor support (breathing reminders, holding my leg, walking me through decisions) and advocating (e.g., anytime someone walked in the room, she immediately approached them and asked who they were, why they were there, etc.). As part of our package, we took the 6-week Evidenced Based Birth course (founder: Rebecca Dekker; teacher: Heather McCullough), and we both loved it. The course meets weekly for 2 hours to discuss material presented in asynchronous modules. The material is informative, clear, and helped us make many perinatal decisions. There were many topics my partner and I would not have discussed if it wasn't for the course, and they were so important. Thank you so much 312!

I am so grateful to have had 312 Doulas be a part of 2 of my 3 births. The knowledge and resources…read morethey possess are priceless. I leaned on them through every step of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. They were a huge asset to our birth team and even helped my husband feel more confident in supporting my labor. We can't say enough good things about them!

We worked with Victoria and Heather as first time parents. We can't imagine our birth without…read morethem--and we don't want to! We started with them around 36 weeks and they immediately provided immense support and great service. (I only wish we found them sooner!) When we first interviewed Victoria to see if we'd like to go with 312Doulas I loved that they utilized the Evidence Based Birth resources, had an educational component built into the price, and saw Victoria as someone that would support the type of birth I wanted with absolutely no agenda, just a depth of experience, knowledge, and care. Immediately after ending the Zoom call we emailed that we'd love to work with her and it was truly the best decision we made around labor/birth. We felt the same way about Heather when meeting with her! Working with them leading up to the birth made my husband and I feel so much more confident and empowered going into such a new and intense experience. We both became much more equipped advocates for ourselves and felt like true partners with the doulas and our medical team instead of just participants in the birth. When it was time to give birth Victoria was an immense physical, mental, and emotional support during labor. One of the nurses recognized Victoria from her + Heather's work with other patients and said they're the best, even adding when fellow nurses want to work with doulas they go with 312Doulas. Heather joined us at the hospital when it was time to push. Heather was an amazing support--suggesting new positions and techniques to help me progress. This was especially important when the doctors started bringing up more intense interventions like forceps, Vaccuum or C-section despite baby and me coping well. Only Heather gave actionable ideas that led to progress. I credit the evidence-based knowledge 312Doulas gave us + Heather's active support with why we were able to have the birth we wanted and everyone stayed safe and healthy. We can't thank them enough and are so grateful for our time together. I could go on and on, but suffice it so say we HIGHLY recommend them to any expecting parents.

: Not a nice person. Be sure to check her return policies…read morefor any items you consider purchasing as the belly binder a is ripped up sheet (muslin) that you can purchase at your local Joann's . This is the video I was given for the technique. I can't include it due to Yelp rules, but it is a regular person's YouTube account, not even one of the doulas or Maura. Search Bengkung Belly Binding on YouTube and a ton of videos will come up. The binder did not help me feel held in. I asked for a refund and was told the price was mainly for the doula coming to my house--which was unnecessary because the YouTube video was the guide. After continued times trying to reach a reasonable resolution, Maura told me that I was harassing her. (What the heck weirdo woman?) What doula worth anything speaks to a mom of a 2 week old that way. Beware!!!!!!!!! This doula is unstable and no new mom needs that. Get a Bellefit binder. It helps without dealing with a psycho doula.

Maura was a joy to work with before, during, and after the birth of my little one…read more She obviously approaches her work with a great deal of professionalism that isn't always present in the birthing world. For example, her email communication is clear and prompt, she is obviously very well organized, and she gave me sweet little new-mama-related gifts at our first meeting, as well as after Baby's birth. But all that is not reason enough to hire a doula, right? When I first met Maura, I must confess I was a bit dismayed by her youth. Although I knew she had lots of experience supporting births and more medical training than most doulas, there was a part of me that wanted an older presence on my birth team. Well, thankfully the rational part of me won out over this other, ageist part, because Maura was wonderful and everything we (my husband and I) could have wanted. And I'm sure she's probably not quite as young as she seemed that first day ;) My labor and birth were pretty quick, uncomplicated, and relatively painless. I don't think I actually noticed Maura much during the process. However, when I watched the video of my baby's birth (which Maura was happy to film and photograph for us), I noticed Maura was the one who'd pick up on how I was feeling and cheer me on when I seemed to need it, and my husband and mom (who I wanted hands-on with me) would follow her lead. She just seemed to have this way of fitting in and being exactly what we needed her to be at the time, even though we ourselves didn't know what that was. After Baby's birth, she provided encouraging support and a postpartum visit to see that all was going well for our family. She was pretty awesome answering my questions via text, about all things from newborn poop to homeopathic remedies. I know that she will soon begin to study midwifery, but if you find her still offering doula services, I would highly recommend adding her to your list of doulas to consider.

I wish I could give a 6th star. I was nervous to give birth so I opted to get a doula…read more I can't say enough good things about Holly--she was truly a lifesaver during my birth experience. From the start, her calm, grounded energy helped me feel supported and confident, even when things didn't go according to plan. When my labor stalled, Holly guided me through exercises that actually got things moving--my water broke soon after, and she also shared positions that helped my baby flip. Her pain management workshop gave me tools I leaned on hard during some intense moments. And when my epidural failed (twice!), Holly didn't miss a beat. She advocated for me when I was in pain and made sure I felt heard and cared for. I honestly don't know what I would've done without her. She played a huge role in turning what could've been a traumatic experience into something empowering. If you're considering a doula, do yourself a favor and call Holly. She's the real deal.

During the birth of my first child, there were many unexpected things that came up that I felt…read moreunprepared for, especially during a time when it is already difficult to think (giving birth!). I felt ignorant and like I could have used a lot more support, especially given that the nurses were different, people I didn't know, and that I didn't always agree with (but didn't know how to handle that situation). The actual doctor came in and out only occasionally. For my second child, I wanted to hire a doula to help me cope with the contractions and to be an advocate when we went to the hospital in case I encountered any other unexpected situations. My second birth was much faster, and I had a successful unmedicated birth. I would definitely work with Windy City Doulas again. They have many doulas and helped me find someone close to me within my price range. She was very kind, experienced, reliable, organized, and professional. She even gave me other resources (like educational birth videos about what to expect in birth and at the hospital that she had made, which I watched with my husband). She recommended practicing pain coping techniques, and all of this helped me feel competent and prepared. I'm sure this doesn't happen very often, but in my case I was lucky to have the birth experience that I had planned for and wanted without complications!

Mary was my doula for the birth of my daughter and I have nothing but the absolute best to say…read moreabout her. She was absolutely wonderful and went above and beyond for us before, during and after the birth! As a first time mom with limited prior exposure to the medical system, I wanted to be as prepared as possible: My main priority was having step by step guidance and handholding; Anne and Mary overdelivered! Before the birth -- Both Anne and Mary guided me to ensure I was prepared and knew what to expect; they also answered my every question (including things such as looking at my registry plans). Also, and perhaps most importantly, when a complication arose towards the end of my pregnancy, they were able to quickly explain the recommendation we were receiving from the medical team, provided some (spot on) recommendations given their experience, and gave us an overview of what EXACTLY to expect next. During and after the birth - Mary ended up being my doula for the birth. She went out of her way to ensure my birth plan was met as much as possible. This included helping the medical team that was clearly understaffed during COVID, despite being one of the best hospitals. Mary's involvement didn't stop there. She made sure I had the resources I needed to set me up for a successful nursing journey and checked in on us even a few months after the delivery. Overall, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mary as a doula to my friends and family. Furthermore, the partnership between Anne and Mary is also unique -- They make a terrific team, complementing each other every step of the way. If I could give them 10/5 stars, I would. Thank you again, Mary and Anne!

Anne was our doula for the birth of our first son, Jack, and it's not any exaggeration to say that…read moreshe was nothing short of miraculous. We originally decided to hire a doula to help with pain management upon learning that I may not be able to get an epidural for medical reasons. But after seeing all that she had to offer, we would have been wise to hire her regardless. She was incredibly warm and supportive and non-judgmental. She recognized patterns in how I was laboring that I didn't even recognize, and employed techniques and tools to cope with the contractions that were suited to what I was feeling, what was most comfortable, etc. I don't think I could have gotten through it without her. She is also incredibly knowledgable and accessible. Before labor started, I texted her many times with various non-urgent questions and concerns, and she got back to me almost immediately. Then, once labor started (which was in the middle of the night), she also responded immediately with suggestions and was over in 15 minutes once we told her we wanted her. She is everything you'd want in a doula and more. Perhaps most important is her warmth and genuine sense of empathy. She is so integrated and dedicated throughout the process that she teared up after the baby was born and even during the follow up meeting several days later. She is truly a wonderful person who will give you all her energy--physical and emotional. To find someone like that is rare.

I had a tough pregnancy so I decided to get a doula. Sarah and Erika were amazing the whole way…read morethrough. They were quick to respond, informative, and provided actionable steps to make pregnancy manageable. They have complementary styles and I appreciated having their expertise. When I changed my birth plan, they gave me information, support and they advocated for me. Even after I had my beautiful daughter, they checked in with me. They're both such kind, caring individuals. I highly recommend them! Birth was the most vulnerable and empowering experience of my life and I'm so glad I had them on my team!

I love Erika! I called many doulas to help me get through my first birthing experience before I…read morefound her and she was special. She combines intelligence with sensitivity, genuine care and support with medical knowledge. She is both gentle and tough when she has to - gave me the feeling of strength and security during the whole long night. She didn't leave my bedside except to get us beverages, didn't sleep at all for more than 24 hours straight and was alert and actively assisting us all the time. We were changing positions often, used fragrant oils for relaxation, she was massaging me and constantly checking if I or my husband needed anything. She's so amazing - I'd want to give birth just because she'd be by my side I contacted her postpartum numerous times with various baby care, self care and nursing questions and she helped me - and continues helping me even now - almost a year after our contract expired. She genuinely cares and I'm so glad I found her! Amazing doula!

Before getting pregnant, I didn't even know what a doula was. After doing some research, I found…read moreAmber and Rebekkah and scheduled a free consultation to learn more. Hiring them ended up being the BEST decision I made. Their support went far beyond my actual birth. Throughout my pregnancy, they provided incredible guidance and referrals for OBs/Midwives, hospitals/birth centers, pelvic floor therapists, and lactation support. When I had some slight concerns come up during my pregnancy, they helped me through it and made me feel more at ease. We had multiple check-ins, and by the time I went into labor, I felt completely comfortable and supported. Because of Amber and Rebekkah, I was able to labor at home as long as possible and achieve an unmedicated birth- I was already 8 cm dilated when I arrived at the hospital. When they arrived at my home during labor, they immediately helped calm me and get into more comfortable positions, which made all the difference. If we have another child, I will 100% have Amber and Rebekkah as our doulas again. I highly recommend them to any mama!!!

If you're looking for the best doula team, look no further!! Rebekkah and Amber are the best of the…read morebest and were such blessings to our family throughout pregnancy, birth and postpartum. I didn't decide to hire a doula until my third trimester and I got so lucky that Amber and Rebekkah happened to have a spot open up. I made the decision to hire them right after my initial consult (no brainer, I felt connected to them immediately!) and from the moment I hired them they were so communicative. I was sent endless resources, we met right away and they checked in with me weekly. Amber was on call for my birth This was my third birth and I had never hired a doula in the past. Having a doula changed my birth experience in the best way. Amber was instrumental in helping me maintain a peaceful, controlled mindset that lead to the most incredible birth experience. If you are at all on the fence about hiring a doula or don't know which route to go, take this as a sign that Rebekkah and Amber are the right choice for you! They will help you make informed choices, feel empowered and in control of your birth. I now feel like I have two new sweet friends in Rebekkah and Amber

TL;DR: Jenn is fantastic…read more I went back and forth about whether I might need a doula for my birth. I had decided I probably didn't need one, but then about three weeks before my due date I completely changed my mind and was really worried about whether I'd be able to find anyone on such short notice. I was really lucky to touch base with Jenn and engage her for my birth. She was quick to set up a time with me so we could talk about me, my birth goals, and in general what I could expect as I welcomed my first and long-awaited child into the world in July 2023. When I found that my baby had moved to a breech position, I let her know since that posed some potential changes and challenges and we discussed those options a little more in depth so I could wrap my head around them. She also helped me practice some various positions that some swear by to help the baby turn. Because of the breech presentation I had to schedule a c-section but was glad to have Jenn on my team as both someone who has seen more births than me and as someone who's experienced a c-section herself. She was out of town for a couple days prior to my birth but was still available to me if I needed anything from her. She offered to drive me to the hospital the day of my c-section, which is an offer I took her up on and my mom and significant other came to the hospital a bit later. In the lead-up to my c-section Jenn made sure to share my birth plan with the doctor and nurse. She made sure everyone wore masks per my request. And whilst I was actually having the c-section, she spoke with me, played some music when I asked, and kept me calm. I was not terribly scared of the procedure but more a bit unnerved about being conscious whilst I was being cut into, so those actions helped. And when my baby was born (a girl, which upon hearing made me exclaim "Yay, Im so glad!"), she took photos, brought the baby to me for cheek to cheek contact as soon as possible and skin to skin as well. She stayed with me through recovery, helped my daughter latch for her first feed, and remained with me until they brought me up to my room. Whilst my daughter and I were in the hospital, Jenn checked in with me by text several times to check on how we were doing and offer support. I'm 11 days postpartum now and we'll be setting up a postpartum visit soon. I'm really grateful to have had Jenn's knowledge and support, even if for such a short time given my procrastination. I hope I'll be pregnant again soon and will contact Jenn again for her services--just earlier this time!

'10/10 highly recommend working w Jenn. She was everything I was looking for with my doula support-…read morewarm, supportive, flexible and relatable. From the moment we spoke, I felt a sense of ease and that she cared about supporting MY goals throughout the process; not pushing an agenda. Great pre birth lead up to get me prepared. And excellent at keeping me calm and advicating for what I wanted throughout L&D. She offered to give extra support session to my husband, who had some anxiety about my labor. I don't know how I would have navigated this process without her. And if I'm lucky enough to have a second child, will DEFINITELY work with her again.