Highly recommend Sweet Pea Studio/Jenny. We were referred here by our midwife for newborn massage…read moreto relieve some neck/shoulder tension post-birth. We brought our 5 week old in for a message session and so glad we did! First of all, the studio has such a relaxed and wonderful atmosphere, we felt very welcomed and comfortable in the space. Second, Jenny is awesome. Her presence is extremely relaxing and she made us feel super comfortable handling our newborn. He went through an hour session and seemed to love it too! With one session, he had "loosened up" significantly. Jenny also showed us some massage techniques for us to practice at home which was much appreciated. Also, prices are VERY fair. 100% worth it. I'm looking forward to coming back for some of Jenny's postnatal yoga classes!

Amazing amazing all around! Jenny is has the magic touch- I was in heaven. I wish my massage could…read morehave lasted longer. The facility is clean, cozy and relaxing! I can't wait to go back!

When I was on the Bowmanville Garden Walk last year, before I even got pregnant, I noticed Family…read morePicnic in the neighborhood as I was walking around. I made note of it in hopes that I'd successfully achieve a pregnancy and might check out the programs here, and once I was pregnant signed up for their mailing list. They offer a variety of services from doula and lactation support, childbirth and early childhood classes, to various parent & baby groups. I was here because I attended a music program for babies that was held here and hosted by a partner organization. The space is really lovely and welcoming to parents and children; there are gathering spaces, chairs, pillows, and whatnot. You'll need to take your shoes off when you enter so don't wear lace up thigh high boots! There are great east facing windows that let in enough light that I think when I was here we didn't even have the lights on. I'd like to attend a group that they have here (and as of September 2023 they have a check-in offer for just that, so I hope to use it soon!). The other two parent/baby groups at the music class we went to have been in attendance here because they knew one another, and it would be great to have a community closer to my neighborhood. Parking is ample--it's not a permit zone on Damen itself, though I'm not sure about the side streets. I'd encourage any new parent to see what they have to offer.

My husband and I recently took the 5 week labor class, a breastfeeding class, and a new parent…read moreclass, and it was a wonderful experience all around. The owners/class facilitators are so welcoming and kind, and we learned so much as soon to be first time parents. I really liked the small group feel and that there was no judgment, they really encourage everyone to make choices that work best for them and their baby. It is also very affordable compared to some other classes I looked at. I would highly recommend all of the classes, especially the 5 week series, to any new parents in Chicagoland that want to understand the labor and delivery process better and learn about all the potential choices you'll be making together,

: 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.

We enjoyed working with Lindsey as a birth doula for my recent birth. She is very calm, friendly,…read moreknowledgeable about pregnancy and infant care and familiar with navigating the hospital environment. She helped me during a hospital birth where I made use of tub and tried to avoid interventions. During labor, she assisted by putting heat packs on my pressure points, guiding me into different positions to make laboring easier and effective, making use of a tub for labor, and creating a calm, reassuring and positive atmosphere. Her experience, knowledge, confidence and personality make her a great doula. She also has kids of her own and can relate to moms.

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.

Holly's birth prep class is absolutely outstanding. This is my second pregnancy, and my only regret…read moreis not finding her the first time around! She's engaging, funny, knowledgable, honest, and her main focus goes far, far beyond facts and information (which are also rich and helpful). The exercises in pain coping were excellent. They became even more powerful when paired with the exercises for couples to help us to understand our fears, expectations, hopes, etc. Yeah, I think couples therapists may learn a thing or two sitting in on Holly's classes! Discussing the smells, sights, sounds and other details about childbirth are not a regular part of mainstream Midwestern culture. Somehow, Holly made the information and exercises approachable and not at all weird to do in front of a group of other people. Holly is a great facilitator. A lot of great ideas and discussion came from members in the class because she made space for participation, thought, and sharing. This class involves making art. Normally I think that kind of stuff is total hippy BS, but I really enjoyed it. Maybe I had some pent up stuff from my previous birth experience, but whatever it was, it was awesome. I totally surprised myself with that. I uniquely appreciated Holly's class because she was totally welcoming despite the fact that I was the only one in the room that already had given birth once (emergency c-section not at all what was in my "plan"), and also the only one without a partner in class. Holly made it easy for me to be there, and to participate even though there was a lot of partner work. I really looked forward to coming home to share and practice with my partner. Holly also shared information and guided discussions in such a way to help the couples to manage their expectations and understand all of the possibilities and interventions that can occur, including c-section. She also spent time helping folks in the class to understand their emotions and expectations of themselves and each other. I'm paraphrasing, but she focused on helping us to prepare for the birth that gives us our babies, versus the 3-page plan of stuff that we "want." One thing is not "better" than another, only different, and understanding how to navigate it will make for the most positive birth experience. Holly has spent time at all of the area hospitals, so her tips on productive communication with staff and doctors at the hospital, as well as what to remember to ask for ( eg. squat bars, fresh batteries for the fetal heart monitor) were totally awesome. I'm so happy I took this class with Holly. I'm due in a few weeks, and my partner and I both feel far more prepared for how to navigate our way through the labyrinth, whatever path that may be.

My husband and I took Holly's Birthing From Within Childbirth class and really enjoyed it. We both…read morehad read and connected with the book Birthing From Within so the class seemed like a natural extension. We went to Holly's house for 3 Saturdays and covered what to expect physically and emotionally in labor. I was impressed with Holly's overall knowledge and passion and how she was able to get all of the couples to participate so thoughtfully. I recently gave birth to our first child and throughout my labor I was able to connect with things that Holly had said and so was my husband. Even though she constantly told us that labor is unpredictable, I had some mile markers in my head from what I had learned and it was very helpful. I highly recommend this class! Thank you Holly :)

Sydney and Pippin were amazing resources. They came in at a critical time at the end of my…read morepregnancy and made me feel like I had known them the whole time. Their support in the last few weeks when new questions came up was invaluable. They shared unbiased resources and helped me to make my own personal decisions and design questions to ask my midwife team. During delivery Pippin was a godsend. She gave my partner the support he needed to feel empowered and breaks to help keep him strong while at the same time not overstepping or interfering. Her presence was so soothing both during and after birth. We feel so lucky to have found Pippin and Sydney. I highly recommend them for any pregnant person looking for labor support!

My gratitude for Third Coast knows no bounds! I loved their three person team approach and felt so…read moresupported by not one but three knowledgeable and kind women. I thought doulas mostly just helped you during your delivery but no, they were with me the WHOLE time. Throughout my entire pregnancy Lauren, Shawna, and Renee were there to answer questions, give me resources, and talk me through my fears and concerns. When my son was born and had to go to the NICU, they stayed in close contact with me the whole time. I never felt like a client but like a friend that they cared for. What a gift. And then when my baby came home (he's doing great!) that's when Lindsay and Jennie, our postpartum doulas came into our lives. Literally how can so many awesome ladies be in one company? It's really hard to hand over your newborn, especially one that's been in the hospital, but I felt so comfortable with them. They cared for him AND for me so well. I don't know what we would have done without them! Third Coast is really like family to me now. I'm so happy to have found them and had them with me on this journey.

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.

We decided to go the home birth route after researching our options in the early months of…read morepregnancy. Our Midwife gave us a few choices, Sam was one of them, which we interviewed and ultimately chose Sam. The main reason was she was so down to earth that I knew she could get along with my fiesty husband and take charge at the same time if something was to go wrong. We also liked the fact that she could still come along with us if we had to go to the hospital to give birth. We were impressed and comforted by her great amount of expertise which we learned from taking one of her child birth classes. The day of the birth we called Sam at 2 am and she comforted our anxiety and asked us questions that would help her understand how far we were. As the labor progressed she came over and gave me little exercises like going up and down the stairs and swaying my hips to help move the baby around. She was the one who passed along the info to our midwife of how far along I was. My midwife came over and 30 minutes later we gave birth to our son. Sam was there adjusting my pillow, helping me drink water, and encouraging me while I pushed. After the birth, she checked on us frequently and gave us tidbit of info to help that we still use today. I would recommend Sam to anyone whether home birth or hospital birth to have by your side. We will use her again in the future and wouldn't think to go elsewhere!

We hired Samantha as our doula for the birth of our first-born, who arrived this past February. I…read morecan honestly say that had it not been for Samantha...despite my best intentions...I would not have had a natural childbirth. Although my labor was relatively short for a first-born, it was very intense and happened somewhat suddenly. Within an hour of me calling her to let her know I needed her, she was at my home and helping me work my way through it. The biggest challenge for me was fear, and she had a number of different techniques to keep me focused and relatively composed. Also, she incorporated my fiance into everything as well. It was such an amazing experience for him as well. By time we reached the hospital, I was fully dilated and our son was born just two hours later. Without Samantha, I would have given up and gone to the hospital much sooner and probably given in to getting an epidural. In case you have any doubt about whether you should go natural or not, within 15 minutes of giving birth I was up and walking around. My recovery time was quite short, which allowed me precious additional time to get to know my baby and adjust to my new life as a mommy. She was wonderful from start to finish, and I couldn't be happier with how things turned out. Thank you, Samantha!

Julie's Bradley classes were wonderful. We felt very informed…read more Julie is personable and professional. She is a wonderful person. She was available by telephone to answer my husbands questions throughout the entire birth process. She is by far the most affordable class in the Chicago-land area, and it is so worth it. We will go back for her "refresher" course on child #2 for sure.

All first-time parents owe it to themselves and to their unborn child(ren) to take a Bradley Method…read morecourse from Julie Parache. I can't imagine receiving better instruction or more education per dollar than what you get when you take Julie's class, and we credit her instruction with helping us to avoid a c-section, which we very much wanted to do. We began the class with a little knowledge that we had gleaned from the what-to-expect type of books that we read. We really had no idea what we didn't know at that point... and it was a lot. After taking the class, we left with way more confidence, knowledge, and peace of mind, and we were way better equipped to make informed decisions. Most importantly, we left Julie's class with a clear idea of the many options available during the pregnancy, labor, and delivery, what potential problems were most likely, and the best ways to avoid those problems. And the majority of these are things that your obstetrician most likely will not tell you. You either won't know at all that you have a choice about a certain aspect, treatment, or procedure, or it will be explained to you in terms that make anything but your caregiver's favorite option seem ridiculous. Most frighteningly, many of these choices (or lack of) could have long term effects on your child. Julie has a passion for her work, and it comes through in her instruction. She's friendly, understanding, down to earth, and animated enough not to be boring (but not so much as to be annoying). She is also intelligent, well spoken, and stays up-to-the-minute current on the subjects of pregnancy, labor, and delivery. In short, I recommend Julie's class to anybody wanting to know more about how an embryo in the womb gets to be a baby in the world... and I make this recommendation even though Bradley is typically billed as a "natural childbirth" class. Even if you're planning to be drugged to the furthest limits of human endurance, most of what Julie will teach you applies to all types of births.

Amy is truly fantastic at what she does! My entire birth experience would not have been what it was…read morewithout her by our side. Prior to giving birth, Amy had so many helpful tools to get us mentally prepared for birth. She encouraged my husband and I to think about our goals within our relationship post baby. She also referred us to incredible outside resources as we needed them- like a birth education class, and Webster-specialized chiropractic care when my baby was transverse, for example. While she was an incredible asset prior to when we had our baby, it was during labor that Amy exceeded every expectation, hope, and desire we had going in. She was so calm, supportive and compassionate throughout the entire experience. From suggesting utilizing the bathtub to a birthing ball, Amy made sure my comfort was top notch throughout labor. My husband and I both agree that Amy was by far our best decision in hiring. We absolutely needed her support. The midwives I worked with were in and out throughout their shifts, and Amy was a constant. She was always by my side, guiding me through each breath. She even was several steps ahead, telling me what to expect and prepare for. This was huge for me as a first time mom as delivering at a hospital there are tons of people coming in and checking on you. Amy just has so much knowledge and experience with this. It shows. And her passion for childbirth is so beautiful. She made me see the beauty in the whole experience before I went through it. And postpartum- she checked on me, and came and brought me food around 5 weeks. It was so refreshing to see her again and talk to her about how I was feeling. I can't recommend Amy enough. She is truly wonderful at what she does. We are so happy to have connected with her!

Hire this woman…read more Amy is exceptionally bright, experienced, compassionate, reliable, and adept at offering gentle support and guidance through your pregnancy and labor. She helped me work through my fears about pregnancy and delivery and was a constant source of comfort and support through my difficult and prolonged labor. She supported my choices without judgment and provided invaluable feedback when it was sought. Honestly, I don't know how my partner and I could have gotten through labor and delivery without her. I should add that both my partner and I are highly neurotic, and Amy's patience with us and our endless questions and nervousness seemed to know no bounds. I am so grateful for her support through such a beautiful, frightening, and, ultimately, empowering experience. If you are looking for a Doula, look no further.