Kim was my midwife in 2020 and it was a great birth experience. Her prenatal and postpartum care as…read morealso top-notch.

Kim was an excellent midwife throughout my pregnancy and into postpartum. She was really just…read moreamazing and wonderful. She helped us through every decision and provided support and information with all the medical options. Our birth ended up in the hospital but Kim continued to support us through our stay in labor and delivery. Without her love, encouragement and support we would have had a much different experience. We are so grateful for Kim.

Vanessa Lewis is a colleague of mine and I find her to be very knowledgeable and experienced and a…read morelovely person

My pregnancy was very eventful, it seemed like each day brought on a new difficulty. My Ob office…read morewas not helping me and didn't care about what I wanted for my pregnancy, labor and delivery. I sincerely do not know what I would have done without Vanessa. She helped me and my husband through a very difficult pregnancy, labor and delivery. She started as my midwife but quickly turned into my doula since a home birth wasn't recommended due to gestational diabetes's. She gave me information and guidance to help me stay off insulin and medication. Vanessa really cared about what "I" wanted and that was a breath of fresh air considering all the other OBs and midwifes I saw in the area like to tell me what I was going to do. I'll forever be grateful for her being by my side and helping me look forward to what was really important a healthy baby. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Vanessa. You have been such a wonderful midwife, doula and now friend to me. Thank you for what you do, for supporting what women want during their pregnancy and empowering them to do it. New Life Blessings will give you the information but let YOU make the decisions. If that's what you are looking for New Life Blessings won't let you down :) God Bless!

I had an amazing homebirth experience with Jessica and her team. I wish I had used her for my first…read morebirth. If you are considering a homebirth, I would highly recommend Jessica as apart of your story. She is compassionate, respectful, knowledgeable and professional. She is extremely clean and COVID-19 safe.

I am receiving my prenatal care with Jessica Mills, APRN, CNM, and planning my home birth through…read morecall the midwife. Really love the hospitality and knowledge they carry. It is relieving to know they work with insurances. I'm excited to plan my water birth in the comfort of our home, with my husband and 4 year old and looking forward to see the outcome with baby number two. Obviously, we can't predict if there will be emergencies or not, but having the support of the midwives keeps the anxiety levels down! Jessica is very easy to connect and bond with and always has an educated response to my questions. Wish I found her four years ago!

We cannot say enough wonderful things about Tara. Having her as our doula for the birth of our…read morethird child at Mount Auburn Hospital was one of the best decisions we made. I was hoping for a VBAC, and Tara's experience, knowledge, and calming presence gave us so much confidence every step of the way. Throughout my pregnancy, she was incredibly responsive, thoughtful, and generous with her support- always available to answer questions, explain options, and share tips (including hospital bag suggestions we never would have thought of, even after two previous births!). When early labor stretched on longer than expected, Tara was an absolute rock- providing steady emotional support and helping us navigate our options with clarity and reassurance. Once we were admitted, she arrived immediately and supported me so my wife could get some much-needed rest. As labor intensified, the coping techniques Tara guided me through were essential in helping me achieve the unmedicated birth I had hoped for. Tara's care didn't end after the birth. Her postpartum support was truly invaluable, with regular check-ins and thoughtful, thorough guidance that made such a difference during those early weeks. We are beyond grateful to have worked with Tara- she helped us have the birth experience we dreamed of, and we would recommend her wholeheartedly to anyone looking for a compassionate, skilled, and truly exceptional doula.

There truly aren't enough words to describe how much Tara meant to me during my VBAC journey…read more After my first birth ended in a C-section and I was told by my OB that a VBAC wasn't recommended, I felt defeated and scared. I carried so much anxiety into my second pregnancy -- fear of another surgery, fear that my body couldn't do it, fear of going through labor again. From the very beginning, Tara gave me something I didn't even realize I had lost: belief in myself. She gave me hope when I needed it most. Throughout my pregnancy, Tara was steady, compassionate, and always there. She answered my questions promptly and never made me feel silly for worrying. When my anxiety spiraled, Tara grounded me. When I doubted my body, she reminded me of its strength. During my long labor, hospital staff changed multiple times, and that continuity of care from Tara was essential. She was the constant. She knew my history, my fears, and my goals, and she made sure I never felt lost in the shuffle. Tara showed up in every sense of the word. She had helpful suggestions for managing pain, changing positions, and staying focused. When things got hard, and I worried I might end up with another C-section, Tara looked me in the eyes and reminded me I could do this. When parts of my birth plan shifted, she was instrumental in helping me adjust without feeling like I had failed. Because of Tara's support, I achieved my VBAC. She was a huge part of that outcome. I truly believe my experience would not have been the same without her. I only wish I had found Tara before my first birth -- I genuinely feel things could have been different. I would 100% recommend Tara to anyone. She is not just knowledgeable -- she is grounding, empowering, and deeply committed to the women she supports. I will always be grateful for her. If I decide to have a third baby, I would absolutely want Tara by my side again.

From the moment we met Marissa we knew she was the doula for us! Marissa Potter changed our lives…read moreby her amazing positivity and steadfast support during our incredible journey into parenthood! I had to have a cesarian due to breech position, though i felt i was still able to remain in control of my birth. This is undoubtedly because of Marissas empowering spirit and positive outlook during our prenatal visits, not to mention her extremely relevant advice and suggestions. She is a true professional who is not just dedicated to her craft, she excels at it. Marissa provided us with the guidance and understanding we needed, and always let us know that she was there for us, and as promised, on the morning our baby girl was born, Marissa was at our side. Marissa prepared both my husband and I in a way I never thought we could be. I will never have another birth without her!

From the owner: Birth and Postpartum Doula support for pregnant women and families in Western Massachusetts and…read morebeyond.

Beyond my highest hopes for a birth plan and care team! As I was looking for huge change in care…read morefrom my OBGYN at 6.5 months pregnant, I found this birth cottage and I'm so glad I did! Adrian and the team made the transition of care, flawless. Prenatal appointments: extremely personal and always gave all the information to make the informed right decision for our growing family. Never felt rushed, or like I was just another patient. They always welcomed me by name, and genuinely seemed happy to see me. Birth: I had a 24 hour labor, and labored about 9 hours at home, before getting to Salem, arriving to a team ready for me! Noel, Celis, and Jillian all there to support and encourage me and to make sure my baby was safe throughout the entire labor. I was able to set the tone with lights, incense, music and my additional support team of my husband and doula. Yet, I never felt over crowded! They knew what I needed and if they didn't, they ask my husband or doula, giving me the space to labor as I wished! Recovery: after my son was born, they were so respectful with the precious moments that followed! Never once did my son leave my arms or sight. I did have some bad tearing that required me to go to the hospital, but even that, the midwives arranged flawlessly. Noel called St. Joe hospital and arranged for me to be cared for without going through the emergency room, or waiting to be seen while Celis went over all the discharge information I needed for the cottage. I was in and out of the hospital within an hour of arriving because of the action of Noel! And because Noel and Celis knew of my tearing, they both came to my home in Manchester,(35minutes away) for a home visit 2 days later to conduct all the tests for myself and son. I don't have to go anywhere, which is amazing for my recovery and bonding time! 10/10 recommend and I will be back for our next baby!

Our experience at the Birth Cottage has been nothing short of amazing. I have felt supported and…read morenurtured throughout the entire process. We look forward to every appointment. I delivered my son here recently and can honestly say that without these midwives, I never would have had the birth I wanted. I passionately recommend their services to anyone seeking care outside the troubled mainstream healthcare model. You will be glad you did.

I am not from Vermont and arrives with a semi surprise pregnancy. I needed to find a OB quickly. I…read moreresearched for one and Four Seasons Midwifery came up. I'm so glad I went there! The care is excellent! Their staff is very professional and eager to answer all my questions. I would highly recommend this OBGYN to everyone needing care.

I have always dreamed of having a water birth. At first my partner was unsure about a home birth,…read morebut after consulting with the Birth Matters team, he got on board and we were able to birth our little on at home, in peace, without any complications. This was largely due to the care and the experience of our midwives at Birth Matters. We cannot thank you enough. You answered all of our questions, you were comprehensive, you were accommodating, and turned my family into home birth believers! I highly recommend the Birth Matters team and would do this all over again if and when we have our second child.

I contacted Sarafina and Jessica of Home Birth Matters Midwifery Care in February of 2011 upon…read morefinding out we were pregnant. The pregnancy didn't last long, sadly. Both midwives spoke with me on the phone daily while I was having complications and though I never met them, the offered so much support to Big Love and I through our loss. They offered encouraging words and made me feel normal in what I was experiencing. During the summer of 2011 we found out we were pregnant again. I once again reached out the the midwives and made an appointment for a home visit to discuss planning our home birth. They came to our home, hugged me, and lounged around on my couch just chatting about the care they had an answered all of our questions. Since that day, Big Love and I knew that they were the right choice. They just felt like old friends from the start. We opted to have home visits as opposed to office visits. Every visit they would come to our home, check my belly, answer questions and have a few laughs. It was a great way to get to know them and by the time my labor came, I had no issues with showing them any of my lady bits or bodily functions. Sarafina and Jessica were always encouraging. Our parents had concerns about having a baby at home so we invited them to one of our home visits. I think they must have asked a hundred questions. The midwives sat there with smiles on their faces, cool, calm and collected and answered every single one with confidence. Our parents have been home birth converts from that day on. Early May I went into labor. Awhile into labor Sarafina arrived followed by Jessica soon after. There was no intervention and little interruption during my labor. They would offer suggestions every now and again but mostly just followed my cues. They would check the baby's heartbeat with a fetal monitor from time to time and talk me through contractions. At the last of my labor I went into the birthing tub and everyone sat nearby, talking me through pushing. The midwives saw that our baby was being born with his hand and an arm near/around his face. They had great poker faces and didn't give anything away. They very calmly guided me through pushing and helped reposition my leg to give the baby a little extra room to pop out. Mickey was born exactly 13 hours after I went into labor at 4:40pm. I was oblivious to him actually being out and Jessica handed the baby under my arm and into my hands saying "Kati, look at your baby". I could hear the smile in her voice. ***Okay, you came for a review not a birth story right??? Well, you're getting both. Birth is important and these midwives kick major ass.*** Jessica and Big Love weighed Bebe Smash and she took many measurements. She tenderly turned the baby over, smiling the entire time and I knew that my child was in the best care with these two. Our family came and they quietly left saying they would be back for hugs and a visit the next day. During postnatal visits they came to check on me and the baby. I had difficultly with breastfeeding but Jessica sat right next to me and showed me different positions for Bebe Smash to be in while I tried to get the hang of it. She shared her own stories of early parent difficulty that made me feel much better. Sarafina sat on a little stool and rubbed my feet. They were just so loving. I called them and texted them a hundred times over the first 3 weeks with questions and pictures. They responded to every one. Often calling hours later to check up on my progress. With any new concern my husband would look at me and say "we'd better ask the midwives". A call or a text later and our fears would dissolve into the abyss. How lucky we were. During one visit they did a heel prick on Bebe Smash for some blood work. He didn't make a peep while Sarafina blotted drops of blood onto the paper and I commented on how he didn't even move. She told me - and this is how I feel about the care me and my family have received from both Sarafina and Jessica through this entire experience - "it's because we do it with loving intention". I can honestly say that my husband and I genuinely love these women. I can say with certainty that they love us in return. And they love our son, we've seen that through the excellent care they've provided over the past year. These women are more than midwives. They love so honestly and yet so professionally. I can't imagine any other way to go through the stages of having a baby. We often comment on what we're going to do once we're done having babies. I'm confident we will find a way to infiltrate their lives so we can know them for many years to come. We have a healthy, happy, thriving baby boy and I know it's because he has led a very gentle life - from his days as a little sesame seed, through birth, and until now when he's learning to roll over. They were instrumental in helping us achieve this for him. We are planning more births and without a doubt, these women will be a part of those as well.

Very early on in my pregnancy I decided to pursue a home birth. Fortunately for me, my husband was…read morefully supportive in this choice after meeting with Nancy Farr for the first time. We both quickly felt very comfortable with Nancy; she has a gentle yet professional manner with decades of experience (she attended the births of my nephew and niece over 25 years ago!). Appointments are thorough, as Nancy addresses all the expected physical concerns as well as diet, lifestyle, emotional health, etc. Nancy is exceedingly knowledgeable and takes her time in explaining everything and weighing up any options as they come up. Nancy and her support midwife did an amazing job assisting me during the labor and birth. As first time parents with a newborn, many questions came up which I texted Nancy about and always received prompt and thorough responses. Nancy proved herself to be the perfect midwife throughout my pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey. I feel very privileged to have been able to experience birthing in the comfort of my own home while having the security of two skilled midwives by my side. Nancy is wholeheartedly recommended to all who prefer seeking natural approaches to health.

For anyone seeking a homebirth experience, you will not regret going with Nancy. What convinced me…read moreto hire her for my first homebirth was that her transfer rate is less than one in 10 mothers and the primary reason is maternal exhaustion. This convinced me that homebirth is natural and safe for low-risk mothers. I was thrilled that she spends a full hour with me and gets to know me and my family throughout the duration of the pregnancy. She manages to do this while still being extremely professional and making sure to check all the necessary biomarkers to watch for any potential risk that may come up. It is not the same as a certified nurse midwife as they tend to favor managed care and have slightly less flexibility than traditional midwives. Nancy is one of the very few CPM's in Connecticut. Of course when I got pregnant again after my first homebirth she took care of me for my second one! She helps toddlers transition into siblinghood which is a huge benefit! I cannot stress enough how awesome it is to not have to worry about unnecessary interventions such as a mother would have to experience in the hospital. I know it's extremely difficult to have an intervention free birth when in the hospital and being able to focus solely on labor and delivery as nature intended took so much pressure off of me and I was able to have the outcome we were looking for. You will be well taken care of going this route my only regret is that I did not use her for my first birth 12 years ago!

The Concord Birth Center was out of this world incredible. My wife and I just had our first child…read more10 hrs ago. Kate our lead midwife was nothing short of 10 out of 10. We arrived at the center at 6:30pm. As a man I super curious about how a natural birth would go. However, I got to experience the most beautiful gift I have ever received up close and personal. It was difficult to watch my wife go through the struggle, however, Kate was on top of every move. She had my wife in a tub, in different positions for different phases of the pregnancy. And come to find out she is coming up on her 800 birth that she has been apart of. To anyone who is looking for an alternative to the hospital experience and can handle a natural birth, I recommend this place with full enthusiasm. Our baby girl was delivered at 11:17pm. The birth could not have gone any smoother. I am so grateful to Kate and her assistant Bryn. Words can not express our gratitude. Outstanding job!!!! Thank you for playing such a huge part in one of the greatest days of our lives. You two are the BEST!!!!!

From the owner: We are a midwife-led freestanding birth center in Concord, NH, offering professional and…read morepersonalized prenatal, postpartum, and childbirth services. We support your vision of birth, including home birth, water birth, and VBAC. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care, offering an intricate balance of tradition and technology. Midwives are the facilitators of natural process and reserve intervention, invasive testing and procedures for situations outside the parameters of normal. We also recognize that parents value and honor the experience of pregnancy and birth as much as the health of mothers and babies. We allow as much time as needed to listen, interact and educate -- encouraging families to be proactive, to make truly informed decisions about their care. Call us to tour the birth center, and to learn more about what truly collaborative, family-centered midwifery care looks like.