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Families deserve to be surrounded by meaningful support, and access to clear, evidence-based information when making decisions about care. Here you’ll find trusted members of the Bay Area birth community alongside research, educational tools, and birth experiences to help you better navigate your options.
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BIRTH EXPERIENCES
After my last delivery ended in a c-section, I had initially felt a lot of fear of the possibility of another c-section. I realized about halfway through the pregnancy that if I wanted to best set up for a successful VBAC, I needed more personalized support and education outside of my regular medical care prenatal appointments. This led me to a homebirth midwife, along with Sam. The two partnered so seamlessly together and I learned so much during the prenatal period, it was almost funny how much I learned even though it wasn't my first pregnancy. The birth itself was one of the best days of my life. I truly believe my successful VBAC was in large part thanks to my doula team . I could see it having ended in more intervention without their guidance and ability to work so well with the hospital nurses and doctors. I think what I'm most grateful for was how instrumental they were in making me feel safe - feeling safe was such an incredible gift that I didn’t think was possible! If it had ended in a C-section, I believe I would have felt that same safety knowing they were there to advocate for me and help guide my recovery differently than after my first C-section. Throughout the whole experience spanning pregnancy to postpartum, but especially the labor and delivery itself, Sam was a very calming presence that made me feel at ease in such an intense life experience—she truly reads the room to match the vibe. We will forever attribute Sam to suggesting the position that finally released the baby after 4 + hours of pushing. While she is a great listener and eager to learn, she is also confident in her knowledge to be the guide you want while navigating a new experience! I am endlessly grateful for my birth story.
Ali M.
I gave birth at a hospital, and from the very beginning Sam was an incredible source of comfort and strength. From the moment we met, she radiated such a warm, nonjudgmental, and genuinely supportive presence that I immediately felt at ease. Throughout my pregnancy, Sam offered consistent reassurance - patiently providing extensive education, helping me understand all my options, and validating every concern I ever had. She never made me feel alone or uncertain at any point. Sam was also an incredible support to my husband from the very start. She made sure he felt included, informed, and confident in his role, taking the time to explain what was happening, answer his questions, and show him ways he could help me feel more comfortable. Her guidance gave him a sense of calm and purpose, which in turn made both of us feel even more supported as a team. During labor and birth, Sam’s support was truly exceptional. She seemed to anticipate what I needed before I could even put it into words. She went above and beyond to make sure I was physically comfortable and emotionally grounded, constantly reminding me of my strength and advocating for my comfort and needs. My birth ended up being very challenging, and yet she remained by my side through every single moment, offering calm guidance, gentle encouragement, and unwavering care. Her presence made an enormous difference in helping me feel safe and supported through it all....
Kristi W.
We had such a wonderful experience with her as our doula. As a second-time mom, I was so grateful to have her steady, calm, and confident presence throughout the end of pregnancy and labor. When early labor began, she came and walked with me, helping steady me through my early contractions. Later, when things ramped up, she was back with me in the labor room right when I needed her most, serving as a true rock through the most intense part of labor. She was extremely attentive to my needs and advocated for my birth plan when things were moving quickly, which helped me feel supported and empowered during delivery. Bonus: she’s also wonderful with toddlers, which was such a gift for my 3-year-old during this transition. I couldn’t have been happier choosing Sam to help bring my daughter into this world. I highly recommend reaching out to her.
Kayla G.
Working with Sam was an incredible experience. Her initial teaching prepared us for every stage of birth, and her guidance during labor helped us navigate big decisions with ease. She was a calming, hands-on presence who made us feel incredibly supported and strong. Her postpartum care was equally attentive, helping me process the experience long after birth. Sam was an integral part of our journey - we can't imagine it without her!
Marika V.
As a first time mom, I didn't fully know what to expect from birth - even after doing so much research. I originally planned to deliver at a birth center, but when things didn't go as expected and I had to be transferred to a hospital, Sam become my constant source of comfort. During that transition, she was calm, encouraging and incredibly supportive. She knew exactly what to say and when to say it, giving me the perfect balance of reassurance and strength throughout my 10 hour active labor. When I couldn't think clearly, Sam helped me find my voice and helped ensure my birth preferences were respected and understood. She was truly amazing and I can't imagine the experience without her.
Sophia W.