Short answer: Hire a doula, if you can afford it, it is so worth it!…read more Long review: I worked with birth doulas from BBD for both of my births (2024 and 2026). I was extremely nervous about giving birth, and my main goal the first time was just to not have trauma. Thanks to amazing support from our doulas, I discovered not only did I not have trauma, but I also find giving birth such a transformative and positive experience, something I never even considered a possibility for me. I worked with Tamara and Sage for my first birth, a late-term induction and vaginal delivery (both attended), and Tamara and Kim for my second, spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery (Kim attended). A goal in both my births was to wait until transition to get an epidural, and thanks to Sage helping me ride contractions and helping my spouse keep me comfortable I was able to wait as I had hoped. In my second birth, I used techniques I had learned from Sage as well as new ones from Kim to stay so comfortable laboring that I got to the hospital pretty late without realizing how far labor had progressed! I never considered an unmedicated birth a possibility for me, but due to doula support allowing me to stay comfortable I think I would give it a try if I have another baby. Doula support was key to keeping me out of my "fear brain", as in both births, things happened that I didn't understand and they were able to explain them, both on the phone and in person at the hospital. This allowed me to keep calm. We didn't do the birth class due to our schedules, so did 2 prenatal visits instead both times. These were helpful in getting to know the doulas, but also they gave a wealth of recommendations for birth and for postpartum - for instance, Tamara suggested identifying a lactation consultant before birth, which was an amazing suggestion given that I needed lactation support immediately with my first and I would have not lined this up without her suggestion. We really like the 2 doula model, also, which seems pretty unique. We highly recommend BBD!

I had the best experience with Breathe Bitch Doula! Louise and Mahri were incredible. They made me…read morefeel so supported and relaxed throughout my whole journey. They are set up to tag team so one of them is guaranteed to be there for the brith which was so helpful to know that someone would be there no matter what. They helped prep me and we amazing resources throughout my pregnancy, obviously during labor, and even postpartum. I'd text them with all my "my baby is doing this is it normal" questions. I want them there for any future pregnancies and labor!

Choosing Tema and Matriz Midwifery Care for my first pregnancy was one of the best decisions I made…read morefor myself, my baby, and my family. I am so grateful I chose to invest in midwifery care. As a first-time mom, I received both traditional OB-GYN care through my insurance and midwifery care with Tema, which allowed me to experience the difference in approaches firsthand. Tema's care was incredibly well-rounded. She didn't just focus on prenatal checkups--she cared for me as a whole person, helping me understand how everything in my body was connected. She guided me through nutrition, hydration, overall wellness, preparing my body for birth, and of course, prenatal care. I always felt safe, informed, listened to, and genuinely cared for. The cultural connection I felt with Tema and her practice was also deeply meaningful to me. There was something so reassuring and special about receiving care that felt connected to who I am and to the pregnancy and birth experience I had always dreamed of. Alix was such a lovely, calm, and grounding presence throughout my prenatal care. I loved having both Tema and Alix's expertise, experience, and personalities supporting and loving on me, my husband, and our baby. Their care during my labor and birth was outstanding. The guidance they gave me was exactly what I needed in those moments. Throughout my entire pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience, communication was clear and consistent. They were accessible when I needed them, supportive, transparent, and honest. I never felt like I was just another patient. Their care didn't simply end once my baby was born either. Being supported postpartum made me appreciate even more how special it is to have providers who see pregnancy, birth, recovery, motherhood, and baby as one connected experience. After experiencing Matriz Midwifery Care, I may forever be biased in believing Tema and Alix are angels on Earth. What they do is such a special and sacred skill--nurturing mothers and babies through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about Tema, Alix, and the people Tema has chosen to surround her practice with. I will always be grateful that this was my first experience of pregnancy and motherhood. For anyone researching Matriz or wondering whether investing in midwifery care is worth it, I hope my experience helps: I felt respected, nurtured, empowered, safe, and deeply cared for every step of the way. Thank you, Tema and Alix, for caring for and loving on our little family during one of the most sacred and transformative seasons of our lives. I will carry this experience with me forever.

I cannot recommend this practice strongly enough. I worked with Tema and Alix who were both…read moreattentive, hugely knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. For the difficult and vulnerable experience of pregnancy/birth, it brought me immeasurable comfort to have them by my side throughout my journey. They invest a lot of time in building trust, made space for not only questions but also emotions and mental well-being, and really give their whole selves to supporting mothers. I am so grateful for their support and if I have another baby I will certainly seek it out again.

April & Joy were a huge part of my pregnancy and our birth story. They quickly became one the…read morehighlights of everything we did to prepare and celebrate baby. My husband and I were so anxious about this new experience and really had no idea what to expect and how to best prepare in this age of social media. We felt so overwhelmed with the over-saturation of information and since neither of us had done this before we wanted to have a trusted source and know we could prepare mentally as much as physically and financially. From the first consultation we felt comfortable and confident in Joyful Roots. My husband is a yogi and told me he instantly felt that same sense of calm with April & Joy. We joined this process a bit late so we were worried we would have to rush to learn and get through everything, but with the ease of the portal, videos and their flexibility and dedication, we were able to fit everything in and not feel pressured or rushed. They came to our home twice before birth and we met each of them separately. We also had zoom calls and a group chat up until 2+ weeks after birth. My labor and birth story was very unique and unexpected, however with the constant support and easy communication, we felt taken care of through it all. I ended up in early prodromal labor for 72+ hours and April and Joy were there for us through all of it! When I was finally admitted to the hospital, April was there to walk us through labor positions and help me feel safe. She knew what positions to help get baby in the right position as well as ease my nerves. She also made sure I was fed and hydrated. She helped my husband interpret what options we had each step of the way and how to speak to the staff, while making sure we were asking the right questions and able to advocate for what we wanted. Due to unexpected circumstances, I was not able to have a natural birth and this was not because we didn't try everything. She could tell I was exhausted and did all she could to give me a pleasant birth experience; one without trauma. She stayed until after my cesarean and I felt so cared for when I saw she was still there waiting for baby and I to return. We cannot thank April and Joy enough for all they did. I don't know how we would have navigated ourselves through this arduous journey without them. It was a hard week and we made it through with their warmth, positivity and encouragement. In our final follow up zoom, they told us "they would always be our Doulas" and we will definitely keep in touch and look forward to having them in our lives later on down the road. Thank you for everything! Love, Chelsea, Lafras and baby Atlas

I am deeply grateful to Joy and April for the support they provided during my pregnancy, birth, and…read morepostpartum journey. I came into this pregnancy with a history of a prior C-section, which naturally carried emotional weight, fear, and many unanswered questions. From the very beginning, Joy and April met me exactly where I was -- without judgment, pressure, or agenda. They never tried to "sell" me a birth outcome. Instead, they supported me as a whole person and honored my autonomy at every step. What stood out most was how grounded and steady they were. During moments of doubt, fear, exhaustion, and decision-making, they helped me feel calm, informed, and supported -- not rushed or overridden. Their presence was reassuring, compassionate, and deeply respectful of my instincts as a mother. They also supported my husband beautifully, helping him feel included, confident, and empowered throughout the process. This made a huge difference for us as a family. Postpartum, their care didn't suddenly disappear. They continued to check in, offer reassurance, and remind me that recovery -- physically and emotionally -- is a process, especially after a complex birth history. If you are looking for doulas who are experienced, emotionally intelligent, trauma-informed, and truly on your side, Joy and April are it. Whether you are navigating a VBAC, a prior C-section, or simply want compassionate, steady support -- you will be in incredibly capable hands. I will always be thankful for the way they held space for me and my family during one of the most vulnerable and important seasons of my life.

This review is way overdue. I started seeing Brent in the middle of 2018 when I went through my…read morefirst miscarriage. I was having a hard time getting pregnant and the doctors were pushing for me to continue with infertility medication. Because of that miscarriage, my husband and I decided that we wanted to get pregnant naturally instead. I didn't like what the medicine was doing to my body. I knew that I needed to get my body back on track after being on birth control for many years. I strongly believe in the saying that you can't force a seed to grow if the soil isn't right. After years of stress and lack of periods, I knew that I needed to resolve the main reason as to why I wasn't having periods. Fast forward to the beginning of 2019, I finally became pregnant under Brent's oversight. I was seeing him weekly prior to getting pregnant to make sure that I was having proper cycles. I saw him throughout my pregnancy and honestly I would say that I had a pretty easy pregnancy. Despite the food aversions in the beginning, I had no morning sickness. I also had a bit of swelling in my feet toward the end, but that was resolved with acupuncture. Additionally, I was supposed to be induced at 39 weeks but after seeing Brent regularly in the third trimester I was already dilated when it came to my induction day. He made sure that I got the natural birth that I wanted. I was only in labor for 12 hours and pushed for 15 minutes until my son was born. I am so grateful for Brent and everything that he has done for me. Acupuncture really opened up another realm of alternative care for me. Brent and his wife are amazing and even though I suffered through two miscarriages, I wouldn't have met them if that didn't happen. I am so grateful for Brent and I highly recommend him if you're trying to get pregnant. THANK YOU BRENT!!!

Had an amazing experience here. After foot surgery a year ago and PT, a CT, and an MRI my dr…read morecouldn't figure out what was wrong with my foot that it was still numb. He suggested acupuncture I also had areas in my mid back and lower neck hurting so I had these treated too. The foot acupuncture was coupled with some light shock treatment (I can't remember what it's called) and a heat pack afterwards to draw out inflammation. Looking forward to seeing the results!

I am so grateful for Patty! She had a lot of tools to help me during prenatal and postnatal. I…read morecan't imagine how my birth story would be without her. My labor was good because of her support. I'm so sad that our sessions are over but best believe I'll ask her to be my doula again.

This is my second time using Pattys service. The prints are a beautiful reminder of how amazing we…read morewomen are! I've done the supplements, tincture and I have both umbilical cords. Great service, highly recommend.

Maggie was recommended to us from a mutual friend, and we could not be more grateful of the care…read moreand calm she provide for us. Our meetings leading up the the birth were so comfortable and nurturing. She has this way about her that you feel like you are in the most capable hands while also having the freedom and flexibility to choose your own birth journey. She helped us choose a birth education class was truly life changing. Because of this, we were able to have the birth we hoped for-- loving, safe, and free from fear. She made my husband feel like an integral part of the process and answered all of our questions with confidence and humility. On the big day her ability to remain calm, focused, and compassionate made all the difference in the world. Due to the fast pace of our birth, Maggie ended up driving us in her car and remained our rock during the whole process. It is an amazing feeling to trust someone, like Maggie, with the most important thing you've ever done. It was so special sharing our birth with her and we felt so incredibly supported. She seamlessly allowed my husband and I to have the most intimate experience, all the while keeping tabs on everyone in the hospital room to ensure our birth plan was followed. She was so willing to provide such loving care of me during times that were extremely vulnerable but did so in a way that let feel physically and emotionally safe. She rubbed my back, she calmed my husband, she fed us, she captured our first photo as a family and so much more. A few days after we returned home, she came over for a visit. We all laughed an reminisced about the birth as if we were old friends. We can honestly say that our birth experience was so beautiful and loving and Maggie was an integral part in all of it. She will always have a special place in our hearts for bringing our amazing baby to us in such a wholesome and wonderful way.

My husband and I chose Maggie as our Doula for our first baby. At first, I was on the fence about…read morehiring a Doula and thought we could handle this on our own, just my husband and I. However looking back, it was one of the best decisions we made for our pregnancy and labor journey. It was just nice to have that additional support, a third eye, and relief for my husband so he could simply be by my side and support me. Maggie is very knowledgeable in all things pregnancy and birth. During my pregnancy, I had a peace of mind knowing I could contact Maggie with any questions that came up! She had great resources on various topics that I had questions about. She was just a text away and was quick at responding and being available. She is also a yoga instructor (including prenatal) and carries a very relaxed and calm vibe, which we really appreciated. She has a kind and warm temperament and is also confident and assertive when needed. My family is a bit of a drive away and my husband had to work during my 9th month of pregnancy so it was really nice to know I could call Maggie if I went in to labor at any time and she would come be with me. During labor, she helped me with various labor techniques and positioning to help labor progress. She reminded us to stay hydrated and helped set the mood for a wonderful birth, she helped me achieve the birth I desired. Between Maggie and my husband, they worked together to help me through one of the most difficult things I have ever done and it was very comforting to have them there knowing exactly what I needed in the moment. She was there before, during and after my pregnancy and labor and overall was a great support systems for us. The investment was truly worth it! I would recommend Maggie to any one of my loved ones who is looking for a Doula.

First of all, I want to point out the positives. Jan is a very kind, caring, knowledgeable and…read morepassionate person. She has a lot of resources and experience in everything childbirth-related. Second of all, the Bradley Birth philosophy is well worth looking into. I believe the idea behind it is empowering, and just being exposed to the information is inspiring enough to help many couples have a natural birth. That being said, I felt a lot of time in the class was purely wasted. Two hours a week for twelve weeks, and I felt there was very little information learned in class. Jan has a tendency to go off topic rambling on and on about people she knows and other miscellaneous topics ... Much of the class will be spent watching videos from the 70s...many of which drill into your head how wonderful it is to have a midwife and a home water birth, while bashing having an OBGYN and the typical hospital birth experience. Fantastic, because at the point of your pregnancy where you would take this class, you most likely have been seeing a OB and chosen your hospital. So you get to sit there and feel like crap. Also, some of these(expensive) classes will be largely taken up by recent couples who have had successful Bradley Births who come in for "show and tell" to talk about their birth story. It is meant to be inspiring and it's cute to see newborns. But what happens is these guests come in at 7pm and end up taking up an hour and a half of a two hour class. And if we're being honest, hearing other people's stories gives you absolutely NO insight into what is going to happen during your birth. Not to mention, you have taken time out of your busy schedule and driven to class to hear someone's natural birth story. Oh, by the way, not all the "natural" birth stories are nice easy births. We heard some that involved excessive bleeding and general anesthesia after the birth. Those were somehow fine to share with the class...but one thing you will NOT see or hear of in Jan's class is a birth story from someone who has gotten an epidural or a c section. So if you take her class and end up having a less than natural experience, do not expect to be invited back to share your cute little bundle with future parents taking her class. Even if you have a positive experience, if your birth involves drugs of any kind, your story is not worthy of sharing with aspiring Bradley parents. My advice: read the books!

Jan was teaching these classes when I was a "trepedatious-yuppie- buying-…read more$40-worth-of-books-pregnant -Mom-2-B." I was so happy with her classes that I have since referred her dozens of times and even PAID for my neighbor's maid to go to her classes. The maid's husband learned from the OTHER Dads in the class that men are expected and WILL change diapers, too! You should know that Jan wrote the seminal work in her field: " Teaching Natural Birth: Deciding to Teach and Establishing Your Own Successful Business." There are two class series per week from 7-9 p.m. and she alternates between starting a Monday series and a Tuesday series.. If you're not sure, she has a FREE, introductory Healthy Pregnancy Class every three months or so. Go to her website for the current schedule. Of course you know that you bring two pillows when you bring your spouse to the first class. These pillows determine your place in the pecking order of the class. Don't bring those ratty things from the back bedroom, and don't do as we did and specially buy brand-new designer silk pillows. Do remember they will be on the floor, so you wont want to sleep with them later unless you double pillowcase them, and plan on keeping them in the trunk until the class is over. It looks bad when you forget the pillows. You don't want to be known as the idiot couple who couldn't remember their pillows: what: are you going to forget the kid next? Jan distributes tons of handouts, and is super thorough about answering questions (and my gosh there were some stupid questions. Not me, of course, I had already read each and every page of those $400 worth of books: [say it togther class: OCD] How my kid turned out so great is a complete mystery to me. I can only imagine it was Jan's classes that influenced her to normality.) There are 8 couples, and you tend to network with them, have baby parties with them, exchange baby-info with them, etc, for the next twenty years. If you get the chance to meet Jan's husband, Lee, you'll love him. Such a doll, and so discreet and charming! One last thing: Jan has the most phenomenal memory I have ever seen. She remembers every single kid, the kids birth experience, all of their siblings and parents and often their relatives, the birth doctor, and tons of other data. She never forgets a birthday and if she sees a kid on the street TWENTY YEARS LATER, she will still recognize and remember that child, even all grown-up If you saw Erin Brckovich you know what I mean. She is such a humble, gracious and godly woman, you wont realize at first how smart she really is. Oh yes, and she has a beautiful singing voice, too. Finally, those of you who want a wonderful birth experience owe it to yourself to spend the time in these classes with your spouse. Seriously, you'll thank me.

I am so grateful we found PUSH San Diego. Baby girl was one week late and Deb helped us…read moretremendously. The accupressure was so effective and relaxing. I could feel contractions and baby moving on the spot. She even prepared my husband to coach me and massage me during labor and delivery which worked miracles on D day. The accupuncture was gentle and effective. At the end of the session, I felt so relaxed, happy, and mentally closer to hold our baby girl. Deb even kept me extra time and made sure I had all the necessary care. We had to cancel our final session as our baby girl came 3 days after the previous one . Deb was always available for us from the first day I called her. I actually wish we went there sooner, closer to my 39 weeks (if you consider going, don't wait. Deb is really gentle and will build up her customized treatment and its intensity gradually to ensure you and baby are both prepared). I am really impressed and plan to come back for our second child. HIGHLY RECOMMEND here on Yelp and to my closest friends.

I have recommended Alisa and PUSH Acupuncture to all of my pregnant friends - I have only good…read morethings to say! I initially reached out to Alisa with my first pregnancy when it was looking likely that I would need to be induced. This was my first experience doing acupuncture and trying Eastern medicine but she made me feel so comfortable and cared for. We were able to focus on trying to naturally induce labor, and I was able to see her twice before my baby came. She was incredibly thoughtful and followed up after my delivery to check-in and see how I was doing. Fast forward to my second baby, I scheduled more regular visits for some other minor complications. Over the course of my visits, she also checked in on other symptoms and helped me feel better with things like congestion and other minor aches. With both babies, I had quick and healthy deliveries! If you're on the fence about trying acupuncture or exploring Eastern medicine, I would strongly recommend Alisa and her practice. She made me feel at ease and well cared for.

I chose Nicole Morales as my midwife for my second child. She started care at 23 weeks. My first…read morechild I had a UCSD birth center and it was an awful experience. So when I met Nicole I had a lot of stipulations of how I wanted my care- really hands off, special training and skill in making sure baby is breathing well after born (my first child landed in NICU hour 3 after birth for not being able to transition, clear the fluid in his lungs), no required vaginal checks, short heart monitor checks for baby during labor. She will be as hands off you want and as hands on as you want. So yes, she met all my requirements. BUT the element about Nicole that won me over is her care for my heart and mind. I was so messed up mentally after my first birth. I didn't know how not to labor in fear and shame. Nicole has the training and takes the time to help walk you through emotional pain that may come up during labor. She counseled me during our prenatal sessions and helped me process my pain and disappointment with labor one. She helped me see myself in a new way. I thought I didn't do enough and I failed, even though I had my desired natural vaginal birth. But she helped me see my true self, that I would lay down my life for my child over and over again. And in my labor, even when I was giving everything, I found a way to give more. During labor, she showed up with Marli (her assistant at the time, who also is phenomenal), and played the exact role I asked her to. During transition, I thought I wasn't progressing and she just said, "Everything looks good back here. I'm seeing the progression." (she was behind me) really calmy, and it was what I needed to hear. Calm confidence. Sure enough, 20 minutes later my daughter was born. Also, after birth she stayed and cleaned up the house beautifully, allowed my husband and I to progress the baby's few exams as we were ready. Placenta stayed attached for 3 hours because we were all so chill about the process. At hour 3 my daughter started showing signs of difficulty breathing. Nicole calmly asked us to pray (which to me showed she knew my husband and I, we are Christians and believe in the power of prayer), and she decided to give our daughter 3 false breaths and to tap her back. Our daughter miraculously cleared all the fluid from those three simple methods. Much less intense than a 7 day NICU stay like our previous experience. I want Nicole as my midwife as long as I am childbearing and I will give her 100% recommendation to all those who ask. She is a birth game changer.

I was referred to Nicole by my Doula & let me tell you she is truly something special!!!…read more I have been referred to & seen numerous practitioners throughout my pregnancy for various reasons & she has been by far the best! I knew I was in excellent care when I went in to see her for one item & immediately she was able to assess & diagnose me & treat me for something completely different & inevitably what I really needed that day. I have never felt so cared for with utmost dedication, patience & true motherly care & instinct. When I later found out she delivers babies, I knew she was the one I want to deliver my next baby!! I trust her completely. I still reach out to her for advice & she is always there for me! She always knows what to say to give you her unbiased opinion & give you the power to make your own informed decisions. Nicole, thank you from the bottom of my heart & will you please deliver my next baby?!?

​I cannot say enough wonderful things about Nova. If you are looking for a postpartum doula who is…read moreprofessional, deeply intuitive, and truly goes above and beyond, look no further. ​It had been 6 years since I last had a newborn, and to be honest, I was feeling incredibly rusty. Nova was an absolute lifesaver in easing me back into the groove of infant care, bringing a sense of calm confidence into our home right when I needed it most. ​While she is fantastic with babies, what truly sets Nova apart is how much she focuses on the entire family unit. She didn't just care for my newborn; she took incredible care of me as a recovering mother. She anticipated my needs before I even knew them--constantly ensuring I stayed hydrated, offering much-needed massages, and knowing exactly the right level of support to offer. She balances warmth with the utmost professionalism. ​On top of that, she was a massive help around the house, seamlessly taking over everyday household tasks so I could actually rest. She also went out of her way to engage and entertain my 6-year-old son, making sure he felt included and special during a time of big transitions. ​Nova doesn't just do a job; she brings peace, order, and genuine care into your home. We are so incredibly grateful for her support!

Nova is such a wonderful human being. I hired her as a postpartum doula last minute. She was so…read morewarm and welcoming from our very first text exchange. When she came to my home she made me feel at ease and is so great with my son. She has a huge heart with good intentions and takes care of the whole family, not just the baby.. I couldn't say enough positive things to share how much of a difference she made to our family.