Hiring Ruth was the best decision my husband and I made in preparation for the birth of our first daughter. We knew we wanted to have a natural birth (or at least attempt one), and we wanted to have someone at the birth to help achieve that goal. During our initial interview, Ruth stressed the importance of having someone we felt comfortable with as our doula, and recommended that we interview at least two or three other doulas (which we did). Ruth is a very maternal, calm woman whom we knew we could both work with. She came to our home for three prenatal consultations. Ruth gave us a binder with information to guide us through pregnancy, labor and postpartum, including useful exercises, information about the various stages of labor and how to best prepare. She also lent us books and dvds when we asked for additional information. During each visit (between 1 and 2 hours), Ruth talked to us about our birth plan, questions and concerns, and helped us to have a truly realistic vision for the labor. She was kind, patient and made us feel that we were in control.
During my 24 hour labor, Ruth came to the hospital prepared with a birth ball and all sorts of gadgets that helped ease my pain. She coached my husband on the types of massages that helped me with my back labor and she was a constant source of support and motivation. I can honestly say that I don't think I would have made it through this labor without her, and was thrilled that I was able to have an unmedicated birth. At the postpartum visit, Ruth brought us the notes she took during labor that tracked my progress and the interactions we had with hospital staff. She also brought photos and a little gift for our daughter. She is the nicest!
I recommend Ruth for anyone who is thinking about having a doula attend their birth. I know we will definitely be using her again and are so lucky to have found her. read more