I moved back to the area 36 weeks pregnant. I was interested in having a homebirth with a licensed midwife, and a friend recommended Leslie. We spoke on the phone, she answered all my questions and made me fell confident and comfortable. After arriving, I had my first appointment and weekly visits until the baby came. All standard tests and procedures were offered and the pros and cons of each were explained thoroughly. My decisions for or against any procedure or test were respected and never questioned.
The day I went into labor, she arrived early and assessed my progress. She offered support and encouragement, and empowered and calmed me through the hardest parts. Once the baby came, she gave her to me immediately. While baby and I bonded, she finished up, helped clean up the house, and prepared our bed (it was the middle of the night). When it was time, my husband got to weigh the baby. Leslie performed the rest of the initial infant assessments, made sure everyone was comfortable, then left us for the night. She returned to our home multiple times in the following week to check on my recovery and the baby's progress. I felt comfortable with her every step of the way.
If you are considering homebirth (waterbirth is an option!), I recommend meeting with Leslie. Her first consultation is free, and though her office is located in Mid-Valley, it isn't that long of a drive and there are some great restaurants right across the street! read more
