The Transformative Role of Doula Care: A Natural Birth Story in SWFL

Thank you to first time mom, Savannah, for sharing a piece of your journey with us! It's not often that we rely on our backup doula model of care, but a few times a year it does come into play. We build backup care into our care plan, and we carefully communicate how we authentically provide care even in backup situations. Mindful Birth Doulas Jennifer and Tara provided stellar care for this sweet family, and mom Savannah wrote to us to let us know. Thank you for your kind words Savannah! Read on for her firsthand account of welcoming her daughter, Vivian. Her email to us began with this: "I wanted to share with you my successful birth story, which largely included the sweetest woman I’ve ever met, Tara."

"When I first began having contractions on March 29th, 2025, I immediately contacted my original doula, Jennifer and let her know what was going on. She gave me some good advice on working through the contractions at home and told me she had another client that was actively in labor so I might be working with my back up doula, Tara. I was nervous at first because I had been working with Jennifer for months, preparing for the big moment! Once the contractions kicked up, I contacted Tara and told her what was going on. She was calm and gave me guidance on my next steps over the phone.

She told me she would meet us at the hospital once we were ready and at a moments notice and particularly early I might add (4:00 am), we were off to have our baby! Tara met us there and waited while we checked in and got assigned our room, which took a while. 

We finally met Tara for the first time in the labor and delivery room. Meeting someone for the first time before the most intimate and important moment of your life seemed a little unusual to me. She immediately prepared the room, dimmed the lights, lit the diffuser, and offered help. She knew what she was doing!

Once contractions progressed and became more painful, Tara guided Chris and I through different positions, offering different relief with counter pressure and the bathtub. I took back any previous thoughts I had about not knowing our doula beforehand. She was there with us for over 10 hours! She was right there, guiding my husband and I and holding my hand through it all! Tara helped explain any medical lingo we were unsure of, worked with the nurses, and made sure I was taken care of. Once we were ready to push, she was right next to me and my husband, encouraging me and maintaining the calm energy. I was able to have my unmedicated birth just like I had imagined, largely in part of having a great team.

And just like that our sweet Vivian was born on March 30th, 2025! I wouldn’t change anything. My husband and I feel so lucky to have had her with us during the most intimate and important moment of our entire lives. Tara is an absolute Angel! And on top of that, she helped us when we got home too! During my weakest, she guided me on the first few crucial steps of motherhood. That is something I will never forget. 

I truly cannot express how grateful I am for her. She deserves all of the love! You have one of the best doulas in south west Florida. Hands down. Please take care of her!"

Authored by first time mom, Savannah

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