I want to share my experience to be able to help future mothers and especially first time mothers to have the best experience possible wether its for birth or postpartum as mine wasn't what I wish It would have been. I wanted to feel supported and try for a VBAC for my second birth so I decided to work with Andrey for the birth of our daughter. Everything went good at the beginning, we had our in person interview, shortly after that meeting we decided we would be a fit for each other. After that she came over one more time and afterwards she told me she had a family oversees she was working with and would be available via phone/zoom and if needed to she would introduce me to a back up doula incase she wasn't back in time for my birth. The way she introduced us was thru text (no phone call or even an effort to do a zoom call so me and that back up doula could meet each other) no professionalism. My prenatal care was very limited nothing close to what Andrey promotes. Then I asked for a list of what to bring in my birth bag, she said she would send, I had to ask about 4 times until she sent and the reason I didn't get it was because she had sent it to a 'Victoria' how do you forget your clients name especially when you are a part of one of the most vulnerable times in their life. Fast forward to my birth Andrey ended up not being there. I ended up working with the back up doula & my first time meeting her and talking to her was her walking in my room while I laid in my bed clothe-less in pain as I was going thru my contractions (not the most ideal setting to meet someone for the first time who is going to be a part of a raw and emotional intimate time) a few days later Andrey lets me know shes back in LA and is coming to see me & baby to help with postpartum care. Then texts me cancelling because her car is in the shop (She could've taken an Uber) and cannot make it and she can come another day. She comes over a couple days after that for a few hours and tells me she will be back @10am the next day to help us some more. The next morning @9:35am she txts me she cannot make it and isn't available until the following week. I had cancelled help from my sitter to help with my newborn and toddler and my husband had left to work because we had relied on having help from Andrey that morning. At that point I was feeling extremely upset. The care and support I was expecting which Andrey advocates heavily on was nowhere close to what I was given. What was supposed to be a time in my life where I should've been given unwavering love and support turned into a time of grief and sadness for me. I decided to have a conversation with Andrey and let her know how I was feeling and I no longer felt comfortable working together. She apologized and told me I was a client that 'fell thru the cracks.' Simply she overcommitted and I was put in the back burner or was her last option sadly. She offered to bring some postpartum stuff to help with grief and overall just to help me emotionally and would drop it off in the next couple days, she never did. Unfortunately Andrey constantly overpromised and underdelivered. read more

Absolutely incredible experience with Andrey! From the moment we met her, her calming presence put us at ease. She brought not only warmth and reassurance but also deep experience and medical knowledge that made us feel completely confident in our birth plan and, most importantly, safe--both for mom and baby. Andrey was the advocate we didn't even realize we needed, always prioritizing our best interests over the hospital's. We genuinely cannot imagine going through the experience without her. If you're considering a doula, stop searching--Andrey is the one. Cannot recommend her highly enough!!!! Thank you Andrey!!! read more

Andrey is an incredible human. Her thoughtfulness carried me through a trying pregnancy with ease. I loved working with her and hope to do it again if I have another baby. read more

I don't even know where to start. I am so grateful that Andrey is in my life, and that I met her when I did. I would not have been able to have a successful VBAC if Andrey was not there by my side. I'm in somewhat of a unique position because I had Andrey as my doula for my second pregnancy and birth, and had a different doula for the first. With Andrey by my side, giving birth felt like a transformative and empowering experience. I met with her many times before actually giving birth, so I felt like she knew me, understood me, and I came to trust her. It was so different from my first birth experience, where I had only met my doula three times before going into labor. I felt so much fear during the labor and made a lot of fear based decisions and therefore felt depleted, defeated and depressed because a cascade of interventions led to an emergency c-section. I know in my heart that if I had had Andrey as my doula the first time around, I would never have ended up feeling so afraid and traumatized by the birth experience. I know this because the script was the same, but Andrey filled the gaps in information. She gave me the knowledge to be able to make the best decisions for my health and the health of my baby. As soon as I met her, I knew immediately that she had a lot of experience because she was so much more knowledgable than my first doula. Not only did she know so much about pregnancy/birth/labor itself, but she also knew so much about Cedars-Sinai and she knew my OB. And she knew my previous OB. I was really impressed, but even more so when Andrey showed up to the hospital, the midwives and nurses knew her, and were soooo happy to see her. I was in good hands for the 36+ hours I was in labor. She was my advocate, but she is also very intuitive and spiritual, and she brought a calming and serene energy to the delivery room. Giving birth is such a significant and life changing moment, and I can say that having Andrey as my doula was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself and for my baby. She really helped me move past the trauma of my previous birth and helped me prepare and be informed and be okay with any scenario that would unfold. She is magic, but she is also experience, knowledge, and connection. read more

I'm getting emotional as I write this review, as I'm 4 months postpartum and I miss Andrey's presence so much. She's an absolute gem. Every new mother deserves the kind of love and support she offers. I think we'd have a lot less cases of postpartum depression if more women like Andrey existed. I connected with Andrey when I was about 20 weeks pregnant and we met in person to see if we were the right fit. I had already pretty much decided on another doula but wanted to honor my meeting with Andrey and I'm so glad I did. We immediately had a deep connection and I could tell Andrey is highly intuitive, which I am as well. There was a flow and ease to our conversation. I loved that she does not do the standard package of: 2 meetings before baby, the birth and 1 meeting postpartum. Her packages are more robust and include about 7-8 meetings before birth, several postpartum hours and special extras like postpartum care products made by her (nipple balm, soothing belly balm, tea), a belly binding 'ceremony', placenta encapsulation, an umbilical cord heart memento. (NOTE: Her nipple cream is amazing. I tried another brand on one nipple and hers on the other and the one with her product healed much quicker.) In our pre-birth meetings, she was so informative and calming. She took time each meeting to listen to my heart and adjusted our meeting to meet me where I was at - sometimes that meant doing body work or breath work, other times we'd just talk through things and she'd prepare me for the next meeting with my doctor. I found out my son was breech around 32 weeks, which was devastating for me since I wanted a non-medicated hospital birth. She calmly recommended exercises to flip him, helped me get an ECV booked and began to explain what a natural breech birth could look like (and also what a cesarian birth might look like if that's the route I decided to take). When he didn't flip by 38 weeks (and I decided a natural breech birth was NOT for me), she suggested that rather than booking a date for my cesarean, I could allow my body to go into labor so I could experience what contractions feel like and know that my body and my son were ready for birth, then pack up my bags and calmly go to the hospital and have the cesarean then if he didn't flip in labor. I didn't even think that was an option. Ultimately, my son didn't flip but I started having contractions at 4am the day before his due date. I got to experience early labor for about 12 hours before having my cesarean, which was a beautiful experience. Without Andrey, I probably would have agreed to book the cesarean at 38 weeks like the doctors prefer for breech babies. Since we didn't spend hours together giving birth, she kindly converted some of those 'birthing doula hours' into postpartum hours, which was so kind of her. She was there to sit with me, cook for me, help me get a few longer stretches of sleep, teach me how to pump and freeze milk without creating an overproduction problem, help me in the night with my newborn, learn how to breastfeed in different positions (Post-cesarian was tough so she taught me side-lying position and laid back breastfeeding which made it so much easier). Because of her, I did not need to see a lactation consultant. She taught my the 'flipple' and 'guppy' pose to loosen my son's tight neck and help him breastfeed better. She is like a sister, a mom and a mentor all in one. She helped build my confidence as a new mom and helped ease the anxieties that come along with this new little human you created. I was anxious to leave the house so she came over and helped me walk to the grocery store with my baby and see what it was like. She even helped me learn to feed him in the carrier (which definitely makes you feel like a badass mom). While I didn't get to experience 'birth' with Andrey, I did get to see how she operates in a hospital setting both at my ECV and before/after my cesarean. I had done hypnobirthing and hypnobabies in preparation for birth, so she helped me tune into my breathing techniques and keep me very calm. I did the ECV with no medication against the doctor's suggestion (they wanted me to have an epidural but Andrey assured me my breathing would be enough, and it was). She kept a hand on my shoulder and reminded me to breathe and was such a calming presence. She also advocated for me to be able to wear my headphones and stay focused rather than listening to the nurses jibber jabber, which raises cortisol and takes you out of the moment and increases pain. All I can say is, you won't find anyone who cares as much as Andrey. She loves to be there for women, especially new moms, and I can say that me, my son and my family thrived postpartum because of her. read more

We had a terrible in-person interview with her in the home, she seemed moody and at times unprofessional, definitely not warm or caring. She said she would get back to us with some information, but we never heard from her again. We did not hire her. However, our friends did hire her as a doula and said that she basically didn't show up hours later than excepted and so she missed the birth! They were disappointed and said it was not what they had paid for. I will let them leave their own review but we are glad that we didn't employ her. read more

There is no amount of stars that will do Andrey justice. Outside of the absolute wonder of bringing a child into my family, she was the best thing about my prenatal and postpartum experience. Andrey's intuition and care were key in making sure I was supported and prepared for birth and recovery. Andrey is a fierce advocate for the best interest of the mother and baby during the prenatal care and delivery. She single-handedly elevated the entire vibration in the delivery room when the delivering doctor tried to shroud the delivery with negative comments. When I was unable to focus on anything other than giving birth to my beautiful baby, Andrey focused on me AND everything else, from making sure I was comfy to making sure my husband knew how to support me, to checking the medical staff when they needed to be checked. And goodness gracious, her special herbal concoctions for the postpartum recovery saved my life. This was right before the Covid craziness, so she came over and helped set us my husband up with everything he needed to help me recover. And she made the first batch of tea and healing aids for me to use. She also helped with nursing issues and she was just super supportive. I would recommend Andrey for any family that needs a beautiful spirit like Andrey in your corner during the most wonderful and high stakes time in your life! She is the absolute best and I'm happy that she'll always be a bright and shining part of our family and birth story. read more

I had a very negative experience employing Andrey as my post-partum doula last month (February 2024). This was shocking, because she has so many positive reviews here. I interviewed several post-partum doulas, and I decided to hire Andrey to help me with my post-partum recovery and my newborn. I ended up having an unscheduled c-section and severe preeclampsia, and I spent a week in the hospital, so I was in a very mentally, emotionally, and physically vulnerable position. - After working her first shift, Andrey was late for every single shift. This ranged from a few minutes late to almost an hour late. I found this extremely unprofessional, especially at a pay rate of $60/hour. - I found Andrey co-sleeping with my newborn, which I never approved. - After less than 2 weeks working for us, Andrey unexpectedly told us that she needed to "take time off to rest and reset", and that she wasn't exactly sure when she'd be able to work again, but possibly in a week. She said she'd send her backup doula to help us. - After several days of working with the backup doula without any issues, we had an extremely disturbing incident. I went into the nursery to wake her up to relieve her. After several attempts of calling her name and not being able to rouse her, I touched her lightly on the shoulder. She shot up and immediately began screaming and wildly flailing her arms around. I fell to the ground and bruised my hip and hand. This went on for a good 20 seconds before she realized where she was, and that she wasn't in danger. There are so many ways this could have gone even more badly: if she had knocked over the baby's bassinet, if she had fallen on him, or if I had been holding the baby when I fell. After this incident, I had no choice but to fire Andrey. I believed that my baby and I were not safe in her care. read more

I knew Andrey was going to be my doula before even speaking to her. Listening to her on a podcast years before I would become pregnant, I was mesmerized by her wisdom and calm voice. Fast forward to the third trimester of my first pregnancy: after our phone interview, I was even more sure that she was the doula for me. My husband and I were on the fence only due to the financial commitment, but sitting on the other side of birth and 12 weeks postpartum, I wholeheartedly can say she was 1000% worth it. With every home visit, my husband and I felt so much more ready for the upcoming birth of our son. She checked in to see how we were doing (almost like a couples' therapist!), informed us of what to expect, and guided and prepared us for the hospital birth and postpartum. When the time came and my [very long] labor began, she was with us every step of the way. Andrey supported me in laboring at home for as long as possible, while also reassuring me that if I wanted to go to the hospital at any point, that was ok. As a very indecisive, nervous/anxious overthinker, I felt confident, safe and secure every moment of my labor, at home, in the hospital, and during the birth, and that's all because of Andrey. When I eventually checked into the hospital, my OB and the nurses all pushed unnecessary, and then a couple necessary, interventions on me, and she helped me make the right decision for each of their suggestions. My baby was born and then came the actual hard part: postpartum. Andrey was still there for all of us. She helped me feel confident in taking care of my brand new baby. She taught me how to use my breast pump and held my baby so I could get much needed sleep (note for the first 2 months of my baby's life I didn't trust ANYONE except for my husband and Andrey to hold my baby). When I woke, Andrey had delicious homemade food waiting for me, had helped with baby laundry, and had given love and attention to our dog who was recently feeling a little neglected. It was like having a postpartum fairy godmother. On top of all that, she even makes her own wellness and body care products, including a divinely warming belly oil, luscious body butter, and tea blend that I swear is the reason for my plentiful breast milk production. It's been a few weeks since our last postpartum visit and I miss her deeply. Andrey really became a part of our little family and I excitedly wait for my next pregnancy so we can welcome her back with open arms. read more

Andrey Lemon, Doula - Doulas Near Me

Terrible communication. Very unresponsive and unprofessional. Lacked follow through and charges multiples of what others quoted. She mentioned she offers ala carte or sliding scale rate "if I like you." I did not get the impression that she was someone I could ultimately rely on. read more

What can I say about Andrey that hasn't already been said in other glowing reviews? Regardless of your background, it's worthwhile to have an exceptional doula like Andrey. However, if you are a woman of color, especially a black woman, I believe that having this type of support isn't an option. It's a necessity. It's well documented that maternal healthcare is often an unsafe place for black women, regardless of socioeconomic status. Even if you choose a black doctor as your provider it doesn't ensure your safety from systemic racism, and I experienced this first hand. Thankfully, I had Andrey. Andrey is the type of expert that perfectly blends medical wisdom from her past experience as a nurse midwife with spirituality and care. It's like having a calm, wise sister/friend at your birth who can simultaneously talk to you about pop culture, ensure you're in the right body position during labor, and communicate your wishes with authority to healthcare staff. During my unmedicated hospital birth, she was a God-send who kept me sane and focused on my birthing goals, despite some negative feedback coming from hospital staff. And she's not just brilliant on the day you give birth, she supports you throughout your pregnancy-- giving you exercises to prepare your body, discussing your birth plan to prepare your mind, and walking through your birth fears and to prepare your spirit. By the time labor arrived, I felt confident that I could birth naturally. I was able to have my third and last baby unmedicated, and it was one of my proudest moments. I cannot recommend Andrey enough. Not to get too "woo-woo" but I believe she was sent to me to heal some of the trauma I experienced in my past pregnancies and births. If you're on the fence, just give her a call. In summary, you deserve to have the type of care and support that Andrey provides during this challenging but magical experience that is pregnancy, labor and birth. read more

Andrey is a God-send! I worked with Andrey for my plascenta encapsulation, and it was absolutely seamless to work with her immediately after giving birth to my second child. I was able to have my plascenta medicine in addition to postpartum tea, sitz bath shortly after birthing my second child, and it was what helped make my postpartum period restorative and healing. I also had the honor to have my hips closed by Andrey at four months post partum, a ceremony that I highly recommend all postpartum mamas/birthing people to engage in at 40 days + postpartum. She is also a phone call away for any questions, postpartum. She comes with my highest recommendation, and I am forever grateful for her gift of being a doula and assisting my family during this special time. read more

I adore Andrey! She was the star of the show during my birth. Seriously would not have gotten through without her. I loved getting to know her prior to my delivery date, as birth is obviously a very intimate process. She had a great working relationship with my OBGYN and that really helped to create an ease to the big day. She is an incredible advocate and an expert at birth. Any baby I have Andrey will be by my side! read more

Andrey is absolutely amazing. If I didn't have her by my side and a phone call or text away at all times I don't know what I would have done as a new mother! From the moment we met I knew I was in great hands. The way she is able to connect with you and your family is so important. My experience would not have been the same without her I had a terrible doctor trying to induce me before my due date and trying to push all sorts of unnecessary things while I was in labor and if it was not for Andrey's knowledge and support I wouldn't have known better and went along with it all. Grateful to have had her by my side and as a friend is a complete under statement. Love you Andrey!!!!! read more

Cannot say enough great things about Andrey! My husband and I were hesitant about hiring a doula - but kept reading over and over again that not only was a doula the best money you will spend during your pregnancy, but THIS doula was the one we needed. We are so glad we decided to work with Andrey. Andrey meets with you many times prior to giving birth, really taking the time to get to know you and your partner and to discuss labor and postpartum (the fourth trimester is real, ya'll!). We felt very comfortable with her - she is warm, kind, extremely knowledgeable and very strong. She was just what we were hoping for! We were planning on a home birth that got switched last minute to the hospital at the recommendation of our midwife. Andrey was very truly a lifesaver. She grounded us in that moment of shock, helped calm us and prepared a last minute hospital birth plan, and went with us to the hospital. I also credit her with making our hospital experience so pleasant! They don't really talk you through your options at the hospital. Andrey helped so much by letting us know what to ask for (mobile monitoring!), turning down the lights (you don't realize you can do that!), getting into the shower in the room (again, didn't know you could do that!). She was instrumental in anchoring me through each contraction and talking me through what was happening. I had a lot of intense emotional release during labor and she supported me with hugs and kind, strong words the entire time. I did end up electing to use an epidural when my body wouldn't release tension to let the baby down - and Andrey was very supportive about that decision as well. Andrey also worked exceptionally well with the nurses and Doctor at the hospital. It was a big love fest! I have heard many examples of doulas and hospital staff members clashing, but this was not the case with us. Everyone got along great! A doula in general is the one person truly on your side advocating for you and your desires - and Andrey is exceptional. We trust her completely and were so glad that she was the one to help us welcome our first child into the world. If you are hesitating, like we were - go for it! It really is the best money we spent for our pregnancy. Lastly - Andrey was so supportive AFTER the birth as well. She has checked up on us many times, came over and brought food for us, taught us how to babywear, and was always available for any questions I had. I think this is very unique, and we really appreciated it! And bonus - her tea blends are AMAZING. Thanks Andrey - we love you so much!!! read more

What I appreciated most about Andrey is that she didnt just assist during my labor her making a point to see me as often as my doctor visits along with building a relationship with me, my husband and my mother was invaluable. Having a trusted connection was so important during this life altering change in my life. Andrey gave me support and guidance before, during and after birth. She isnt just a doula she is now apart of my family, she helped create bonds, moments and memories. To this day I still send her pictures of my daughter. The little one she helped me birth. read more

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Andrey you have become a member of our family. When people talk about being passionate about the work that one does you are the meaning of this. Your love, patience, and gentleness is what helped get me through a pretty tough pregnancy and birth. I would of been in a much tougher place emotionally and physically without your support. My pregnancy and birth was far from the dream I envisioned and you helped ground me and validated my experience from a place free of judgement. Your tips and knowledge runs deep and I felt safe and ensured whenever we spoke especially about tough topics. I was truly guided with the best doula I could of asked for and even through it wasn't exactly how I imagined my birth/pregnancy you never failed to meet my dream doula!! Thank you so much!!! Love you read more

It's taken me some time to find the words and emotional capacity to express my gratitude for Andrey. Honestly words could never suffice, but here goes. I had the pleasure of watching Andrey at work, almost ten years prior to being blessed first hand with her abilities. Within that time she poured into the lives of numerous loved ones of mine, so when my time came, it was without question who I'd want by my side in the journey. Andrey is so much more that a Doula, Mid-Wife, medical professional, healer, light. Aside from being all of those things in one, she has become my family, sister, friend, mentor, and of course Aunty to our little one. Each step of my pregnancy and journey from the moment Andrey joined us, felt safe, informed, at ease, and nourished. I learned so much from her about life, my body, my child, spirit, and gratitude. Not to mention some of the most heartfelt and much needed laughter a pregnant mom could ask for. I had a very lengthy (72 hour) labor, and Andrey truly helped me and my husband remain at ease, educated about our options each step of the way, and empowered to advocate ourselves as needed. To this day my OB and the nurses at the hospital rave about Andrey and her epic abilities. When I tell you, all of the nurses, resident doctors, and staff learned and walked away with new skills to add to their tool kits after our time there! I'm still in awe. And each time I look at our perfect, healthy girl, it takes me back to that amazing adventure, and how I never felt a sense of worry. God, my husband, and Andrey were seriously the wonder team. (72 hours could've looked a lot different in other hands). She would never allow me to say this in person, but I tell everyone Andrey saved my life. In a lot of ways, more than during labor and childbirth, she did. When no one else knew what to do, she swiftly strategized and found ways to get use through, and kept my baby safe every step of the way. I am forever grateful. Anyways, stop reading my review, and go chat with Andrey. She is such a gift, and a gift I wish everyone I love could experience! I love you always Andrey Lemon! And you know this... maaan! read more

Andrey is a guardian angel. I don't know how my husband and I would have gone through the pregnancy and birth without Andrey. She spends a lot of time with you during the pregnancy to really get to know you as a couple and familiarize you with the birth process and how the hospital works. She also did a breastfeeding session which was so helpful to have before the baby was born. We didn't have to pay for any other birthing, lactation, prep classes because she did it all. She also helped me prepare for each milestone doctor visit (anatomy scan, growth scans, non stress tests, the final weekly checkups) so I knew what to expect and could go to the OB office with an understanding to be able to ask good questions. She has a very calming and warm presence, but she's also a badass woman who can take charge of any situation. All of our work together really helped take away any fear and anxiety I had about birth. I was calm when I was having contractions even when they got pretty painful -- something I did not expect from myself. I ended up having an easy and quick delivery with Andrey by our side at the hospital. She knew exactly what to do to help make our birth plan come true. Thanks to Andrey's process, my recovery has been pretty smooth -- allowing me to have the mental and physical capacity to focus on and take care of our newborn. read more

Hiring Andrey was the best decision we could have made during this incredibly special time in our lives. After reading Andrey's reviews on Yelp, I was determined that she would be our doula for the birth of our first child. We began working with her when I was 26 weeks pregnant. From the beginning, Andrey was a source of incredible knowledge and comfort. We looked forward to her biweekly and weekly home visits and I would frequently text her with questions - she was always available and responsive. Andrey immediately picked up on things she thought could inhibit me from having a natural birth - she very quickly recognized that I am a Type A thinker and she did a tremendous job of teaching me to really let go and trust my body. Andrey is obviously well versed on the physical act of giving birth but what sets her apart in my opinion is how much she cares about the emotional preparedness of the mother and partner and how committed she is to each family. I felt fully prepared for birth solely from our meetings with her. Andrey also made sure my husband felt supported throughout the entire process as well. Andrey predicted that I would go into labor right around my due date and that it would be a very short labor. Well I delivered our daughter on my due date and my labor was very, very fast. Andrey coached me over the phone and met my husband and I at the hospital. She was right by my side the entire time making sure I was emotionally okay, coaching me through contractions and advocating for us. She ensured that my husband knew exactly what was happening and that he was supported as well. In the hospital the staff is understandably most concerned with the health and safety of mom and baby so when my room was suddenly flooded with a ton of people responding to our baby's dropping heart rate, no one explained well what was going on. I was terrified and immediately looked to Andrey who came close to my face and walked me through everything.. Every laboring mom deserves that support. During my pregnancy, I heard from too many mothers how out of control they felt during their births. How interventions were pushed and their births were so far from what they had hoped. That was a motivating factor for us to hire a doula which we had not originally planned to do. Although my birth did not go 100% according to plan (whose does?!) I felt in control and prepared. Because of that, I love my birth story and do not have any dissonance. Andrey is largely to thank for that. Andrey continues to check on us even after the delivery. A few days after birth, she delivered my placenta pills and ended up staying with us for over an hour. There were a many times during the tough early days that I got an encouraging text from her that was right on time. Andrey really cares about her clients and is passionate about the work she does. We were truly, truly blessed to have had her as a member of our birth team and as a dear friend of our new little family. read more

Andrey Lemon, Doula - Andrey with our little one at 5 weeks old! - Doulas Near Me

Because, with childbirth, nothing goes as planned, you want Andrey and her wealth of knowledge by your side! My story is different than most doula clients - I wanted to have an epidural but needed a doula's help to get me through the anxiety leftover from my older child's unmedicated birth and prepare me for another in case an epidural wasn't an option. From our first meeting to the day my daughter was born, Andrey was an amazing "therapist," educator, and overall calming presence. No matter what your birth plan is, Andrey will be an invaluable resource to you. I had a difficult birth with my first child which left me very anxious, mostly about pain management, about the birth of our second child. I actually didn't want an unmedicated birth but because of a medical issue, we needed to be ready in case that was our only option. Andrey was an amazing therapist, helping me work through the root of my anxiety and, because of her extensive experience with unmedicated births, educated us about the myriad ways she can be "a human epidural." She met with us many times in person and by phone and was always available, day or night, when questions popped up in between our sessions. I felt so much more prepared and more relaxed as the due date approached, somewhat eager to see how different this birth would be than our first. When our doctor surprised us during our week 40 visit with the news a scheduled c-section would be necessary, you better believe Andrey was the first person I called. That afternoon we talked over the phone about the situation and she provided additional questions to ask the doctor, and then she met with us in person the next day to help us feel prepared for the surgery. Even though she couldn't be in the operating room with us, she came to the hospital for moral support and to bring some essential oils to help keep me calm. It was a relief to know she was just a few steps away if we needed anything and she was great company for our family in the waiting room too! After baby arrived, Andrey provided great advice for my healing and helped me with breastfeeding. Two months later I still text her with pictures of baby and I know that she's still just a phone call away if I need anything. Even though we didn't get to experience her as "the human epidural," Andrey played a huge role in making this birth experience a wonderful one for us. Thank you Andrey! read more

Hands down Aundre is the best doula ever. She cares for you and baby and family in such a holistic way and is always going above and beyond to ensure you heal fully. read more

Andrey is hands down the reason I did not end up forced into a c-section after an induction due to being 2 weeks past due. She was my solid rock- I had a good feeling about her when I found her--- on YELP lol- and my feeling was right. It was a sticky situation with my child's father from the get-go and she navigated it in such a loving way. I know that I had the best experience because of her. LOVE HER. read more

Andrey was an amazing doula! My husband and I are so grateful that we hired her. She wore many hats and was the perfect coach/doula/ educator by providing recommendations about what to expect during delivery (possible medical interventions, natural options to help me achieve my birth plan, and more), how I could prepare for delivery (prenatal nutrition, pain management techniques), and postpartum check-in (she came and did an in-person visit 2 days after I gave birth which I didn't even realize I needed but am so glad I got). While I'm 3 months postpartum I've had numerous chats with her since delivering and she's also advised me on baby care and postpartum basics -- which I can't emphasize enough how helpful that is when you are overwhelmed with fatigue, particularly in the first few weeks. My husband and I were going through a super busy time with work, home projects and life in general that we just weren't able to make the time to properly give this major life transition the thought/ planning I knew was required. Knowing that my time/energy was a limited resource, Andrey helped me to prioritize what to focus on, ease my concerns and guided me through this big life transition. Yes, delivery is one of the toughest physical endeavors I've had, but the challenge of becoming new parents was far more complex and Andrey was a great resource to help address all my questions. Thank you Andrey!! read more

Thank God for Andrey. She is special and truly a gift to us - I don't know what my fiancé and I would've done without her. Since day one I just gravitated towards her energy, her realness, and warmth - a soul you'd want to be by your side on your journey. We just clicked. I learned a lot from Andrey and she genuinely cares. I also felt empowered and more enlightened talking to her. I had my baby 2 weeks earlier than expected and Andrey was by my side. Walked me through breathing exercises while I labored at home and walked me through everything when we got to the hospital. Her calm energy made a huge difference. I can't say enough about Andrey. She's just amazing, God sent. read more

We are so incredibly thankful to have found Andrey! I worked with her as my doula during birth and then also as a postpartum doula. I could not recommend her enough. I started working with her as my doula when I was about half way through my pregnancy. When I met her, I immediately felt comfortable and loved her vibe. Working with her was very easy. What I loved prior to delivery was that we met often, at least once a month, and then many times when I was closer to my due date. You really need to be mentally & emotionally prepared for birth and Andrey helped me get into the right head space. She is extremely knowledgeable ad reassuring. I am confident that had Andrey not been with me while giving birth, I would have had a much different experience. She helped me get very far birthing in the own comfort of my home, something I could not have pulled off on my own. Also, I most likely would have had to get a c-section because although I was very dilated, my baby was not coming down the birth canal. Andrey guided me through various poses and exercises to help bring the baby down. I delivered at Cedars and even my Dr was super impressed and said she would have to try these poses during other deliveries. Andrey helped my husband the entire time as well. I went from being pretty scared of giving birth to delivering all naturally. Andrey really helped give me the strength and confidence I needed to know that I could get this done. Andrey really came through for me during recovery as well. She let me know that everything I was feeling emotionally was completely normal and also gave me a ton of recommendations on what would help me physically. She was always around to listen and just seeing her/talking to her made me feel better. On top of that, if you're able to give yourself a break and hire her for night nurse help, absolutely do it. It's such a game changer in those early very sleep deprived, overwhelming, weeks to get a small break. Andrey is straight up magical. She has a gift. I will forever be grateful to her for helping me become a mother. I feel lucky to know her. read more

Andrey's support made my life dream of a healthy, unmedicated birth come true. She was with me every step of the way with unparalleled skills in every aspect of pregnancy and birth support, from friend talk to physical know-how. She came recommended by friends and family members, and I'm grateful I was able to work with her. Thank you, Andrey! read more

The most incredible. My wife and I were in the middle of labor and decided we wanted to encapsulate. We contacted Andrey late at night and she was helpful, informative, and so accommodating. Not only did she make herself available to us but the way we felt working with her was just as close to working with family. She spent time with my wife helping her with anything she needed and her products are miraculous and top notch. Andrey is amazing and we highly recommend her services. read more

I am so glad Andrey was my doula! We had the most beautiful, natural Hypnobirth that would not have been the same without her. She made sure I was comfortable, and held my hand and breathed through each surge wave with me which truly helped me relax. She also taught me how to make breastfeeding much more comfortable, which I am thankful for every time my son nurses. Additionally, I loved the placenta capsules she made! The packaging is super cute, and I did not have any mommy blues or PPD which I think the placenta pills helped with. I love her, highly recommend her! read more

Andrey Lemon, Doula - Doulas Near Me

If you're considering hiring a doula to help you navigate your pregnancy and postpartum, Andrey is the best there is! I was so nervous with my pregnancy since I was having my first baby and I live so far away from my family and major support system. Also, with being a black woman I was fearful for delivering in a hospital without having an educated advocate that could assist me with ensuring my birth could go as close to plan as possible.(things never go as planned!) My husband and I agreed that hiring a doula would help to alleviate any anxieties or fears we had and I spent lots of time researching the best in the LA area. I IMMEDIATELY felt a connection to Andrey after our first phone call. Her experience and abundance of knowledge about pregnancy, newborns, doctors to go to, and natural vs medicated births is unmatched. She was the greatest support I could have ever imagined! Due to covid she unfortunately was unable to attend our birth in person. The hospital was not accepting doulas at the time but she was still available to me on call 24hrs by phone to FaceTime and text with any worries and to advise on decisions the doctors were making for my induction at the hospital. After my baby was born she collected my placenta from the hospital and encapsulated it for me take take during postpartum. She also makes the most DELICIOUS all natural herbal teas as well as sitz bath & healing sprays after you deliver. I struggled a bit with breast feeding the first few weeks and she helped me with getting my baby to latch and ensuring I was confident enough to manage even after she left our appointment. I wish I could leave 100 stars. We loved her! read more

Andrey was our doula for our third baby. I'd had complications with my epidural previously so I wanted to avoid an epidural again. I also ended up having some surprising complications with my pregnancy which lead to me being induced early. When I found out I was being induced I thought there was no way I could avoid an epidural. Andrey supported me in what I wanted at every step of the way. Thanks to Andrey I was able to have an incredible medication free birth even while getting pitocin. She has a beautiful balance of respect for modern medicine and her clients desires and knowledge about alternative options. She has such an incredible depth of knowledge about child birth and the period afterward that she comes up with options we didn't even know existed. My husband is a surgeon and very particular and he loved working with Andrey. I am a third time mom and still every interaction I have with Andrey I learn something new. Many of my friends have had Andrey as their doula and we all think she is absolute magic. I'm so grateful to have had this beautiful woman in our lives. I really can't say enough good things about her. read more

I met Andrey for the first time today and she lit up my afternoon! Her energy is amazing and she is so passionate about helping others, especially new and expecting mamas and families! I wish our paths had crossed when I first had my baby girl a year ago, but Im definitely grateful for the quality advice she passed on for baby number 2. She is very professional and easy to talk to and I'm sure all her clients value the time they get to spend with her. read more

Hire Andrey as your doula; it will be one of your best decisions! It certainly was ours. While in hour 35 or so of laboring at home, as Andrey held me steady as I walked up and down our block, I said aloud, "How does anyone go through labor without Andrey?" We still laugh about that, and I still wonder! Our highlights of working with Andrey as prenatal, labor, and delivery doula: - her combination of listening skills, empathy, deep knowledge of labor and childbirth in a variety of medical and cultural settings, intuition, and experience; - her leadership in making sure we had a "birth preferences plan" to share with our Dr. and the hospital - including some questions we didn't know we needed to consider, and explaining those to us; - always giving a heads-up about what's next - like practicing a visualization/relaxation technique the week before I went into labor so when we did it during labor I could relax knowing what we were doing, and like walking me through what pushing would be like while in the car on the way to the hospital, so when it was time to push and she reminded me of what to do, I could recall her initial description - supporting my husband, who also needed rest while supporting me through 50 hours of labor at home - her humor and stories - which helped build a personal connection and relationship, and also helped me relax and get distracted when I needed it! - leading my husband and me at home through a technique that moved the baby from front-facing (more painful labor) to back-facing (easier labor) - it worked! - when we arrived at the hospital (Cedars Sinai), Andrey helped us navigate. She's familiar with the setting and knows the nurses and many doctors and other personnel. - helping to translate what the doctor was saying - I understood his words but because Andrey and I had a trusting relationship I felt more confident in my decisions. Our highlights of working with Andrey as a post-partum doula: - in night shifts, allowing us to get precious extra sleep by diapering and soothing baby and bringing her to us to nurse - teaching me how to nurse my baby while laying in bed - a total revelation after I had spent a week getting up out of bed 4 times a night to nurse - teaching us how to use various baby carriers - cooking yummy nutritious meals - providing a sense of security, confidence, humor, and understanding to us newbie parents - conducting a deeply moving and healing and personal "Sealing of the Bones" ceremony with me after 40 days postpartum We weren't sure we wanted to hire a doula at all, or spend the money. I'm so glad we did, the best possible investment we could have made. I hope you do the same! Andrey was actually referred to us by a couple who had interviewed her, liked her, but ultimately decided to hire someone else with less experience, who charged less, and ended up regretting that decision and are planning to hire Andrey for their next kid (if she's available!). Thank you so much Andrey for sharing your talents and experience with us. read more

My wife and I continue to think of Andrey as our "all-star player" in our birth story and we definitely would have had a much more difficult and stressful experience without her. Her wholesome spirit, light charm, and calm energy really helped us navigate a life event that we were totally foreign to (first child, home birth, breach baby, c-section, breast feeding, parenthood, etc). Pregnancy Phase If you're able to, we suggest bringing Andrey on board as early as possible. The monthly and weekly check-ins were pivotal in helping develop a strong foundation of trust and understanding. As a husband, I was very relieved to have someone that my wife trusted to answer all of her questions, no matter how out of left field they may have been. My Googling skills reached next level, but there was so much more validation having Andrey talk to me and my wife to ease any concerns we may have had. Eventually we just had a notepad around the house called "Ask Andrey" that we would write in whenever a thought popped up and would save it for out next visit. Labor Phase During this point we fully trusted Andrey with our birth experience and were really looking for her guidance as the contractions continued to grow each hour and each night. My ability to relax my wifes contractions only carried us up to a certain point before the tables started to turn and it seemed like I was creating more stress than relief (future dad's, no matter how hard you try to not piss off mom in labor...you will become the source of all problems). BUT, luckily we had Andrey there to help massage and talk to my wife and soothe the pain. There's something about the female/motherly connection that had them synchronized through each contraction. My wife and I still laugh about how Andrey needed a break for a few minutes and I had to "sub" in to do the back/hip massages and it was like watching the bench play in the 4th quarter of a playoff game. Post-Partum Phase We didn't hire Andrey for her post-partum services, but there were a couple times when we reached out months afterwards because my wife was having difficulties adjusting to motherhood (which is totally normal and understandable). Andrey was more than happy to visit and her input for my wife and I was invaluable. She was honest with her portrayals of becoming a mother, empathetic of how hard it can and will be, and supportive of how strong and fulfilled you will become because of it. I think it was a tough pill to swallow at the time, but it was something we needed to hear and I am so glad it came from Andrey. I cannot tell you many times I have used the phrase "but Andrey said..." to resolve a situation. For anyone on the fence of seeking a doula, I definitely recommend it. We hire people for legal counsel, financial advice, fitness instruction, etc. So why wouldn't we look for an expert in the birth process. It's arguably a life event that is more life changing and more demanding than anything else you can seek counsel for. For anyone considering Andrey as their doula. She is a stellar person that understands people on a very human and relatable level. In perhaps the most human experience possible, it will give you so much confidence having her by your side through the birth process. read more

My husband and I don't know what we would have done without Andrey! She was so helpful in our journey of giving birth to our first child. She taught us everything under the sun about pregnancy, delivery and postpartum, which helped us gain confidence throughout the pregnancy. We went in to our delivery feeling empowered in the decisions we made, which is all we could ever ask for! She was the best support system for me AND my husband. Her herbal teas, sitz bath and perineal spray (TMI?), and belly binding helped my postpartum healing journey as well. You can feel the love she puts in to her herbal remedies. We'll definitely be reaching out again for the next baby ;) All love! read more

Andrey is an incredible doula. I'm so appreciative that our paths crossed. She helped me in many ways, from informing me on the questions to ask my doctor and hospital staff, to coaching me through pain management techniques. She really gave me the tools to advocate for myself and she is one of the reasons I was able to have a vaginal birth after two c-sections. She'll be my doula again as we prepare to welcome our last baby into this world. I can't say enough about the wonderful person and doula she is read more

Andrey is simply an answered prayer. She is experienced, personable, available, and is plain fun to be around. She's forever a part of our family. What you need to know about Andrey is that she is one of the fortunate souls of the world that is doing exactly what she was put on this earth to do. Assisting families with a happy, informed, childbirth comes naturally to her, is easy for her, and is clearly what she loves to do. Do not hesitate for one second on having Andrey on your team. It will be the best choice you make for your birth experience. With Andrey, you will feel supported, understood, prepared, and joyful throughout and after your child birth. For reference, my husband and I chose to have a natural child birth, but were very, very open to changing our minds along the way. We wanted to be able to find out the facts, and feel our way through the process. We also had ob-gyn care and were having our birth at a hospital. I could continue to write my novella about my love for Andrey, but I'll break it down to some of the amazing moments I fondly look back on: - Personally, I have always been afraid of child birth. I obviously needed to get over that quick. When my friend recommended Andrey, one of the first things she said to me was that child birth is supposed to be one of our greatest accomplishments, not one of our greatest fears. - I had ob-gyn visits along with visits from Andrey. Unlike many doulas I called that offered a set, limited amount of meetings, Andrey met us as much as we met our doctor. Leading up to our birth, we saw her weekly at our home. Major confidence booster! - When my contractions started coming, I naturally tensed up and my body reacted by having them come quicker together! After talking to Andrey, and moving through some relaxing positions, they immediately spaced out again. Phew! - Since I asked Andrey to be with us before our active labor, she was able to stay with me while suggesting my husband sleep for a few hours before actual labor. If we didn't have Andrey on our team, he would have been anxiously running around in the pre-game and totally spent during the birth of our beautiful baby. Her calming energy even got me to sleep between contractions. She is great at sensing what the whole family needs and is willing to do anything. - During the birth of our baby we had a few in-the-moment decisions we had to make. While our doctor gave us our options, Andrey was great at quickly walking us through our options and we choose whole-heartedly. - When I was moved to my birthing room, I could hear another woman giving birth in the same area. She was bellowing the most primal, scared, scream I have ever heard. I was pushing with a gusto, but Andrey taught me to breathe through my contractions and to harness that energy into helping my baby work her way through the birth canal. When we heard that other woman, everyone in the room, my husband, Andrey, and multiple nurses, all looked at each other wide-eyed acknowledging the vast difference in our experiences. I am 100% sure I would have been that other lady without Andrey. - I like to think of Andrey as our baby's life coach. She does not file you away after you had your baby. We contact her whenever we need guidance, and she always rises to the occasion. She also checked in with us multiple times after the birth of our baby to see how things were going. She really wants you to be a confident momma, and helps you normalize everything you're going through. Who knew babies grunted so much!? Andrey is a calm, force of energy and knowledge, and anyone having a baby would be wise to have her in their corner. We are so thankful. I can't say it enough. read more

Andrey is Amazing! She made our childbirth experience EVERYTHING we (as first time parents) didn't even realize we wanted or needed. Even my doctor who's a highly respected OB in Beverly Hills who never even suggested we hire a doula said "The doula you hired made all the difference in you having such a great delivery" And although I did have some complications before labor--- she helped to calm my fears and made my delivery experience just wonderful (nothing like the stressful child-birth movie scenes or the manic screaming I heard coming from another room at Cedars.) It was just a really beautiful, zen, unforgettable experience and I owe the lions-share of that that to Andrey. My husband and I started working with Andrey in my 34th week of pregnancy. Initially I had no plans to hire a doula and was ignorant enough to think giving birth would be as simple as going to the hospital when my water broke and dealing with some temporary pain. But when my husband had some last minute work obligations that took him out of town we decided to look for a doula to provide some support while he was away. My prenatal yoga teacher sent me a list of doula recommendations and Andrey was the first one on the list. Now I realize having a great doula is so necessary and not something you can put a price on.... Besides providing emotional support, advice and education throughout the process here's specifically how she helped us. Prenatal Visits--She met with me sometimes alone and sometimes with my husband to not only go over birth planning but review other things like how we were going to care for the baby and each other after the baby was born. It was really cathartic to discuss my fears, hopes and concerns with someone that could provide not only a good ear but sound advice. Ongoing Advice--In my 36th week of pregnancy some concerns about pre-eclampsia came along and the possibility of an induced delivery was suddenly on the table. I was so grateful to have Andrey to calm my nerves and walk me through the various delivery scenarios including potential medications and procedures and most importantly what my options were. I think when things happen quickly you just need someone who can put your best interests at heart in a way that doesn't dismiss medical opinions but adds a different perspective so you're not just blindly doing what the dr's and nurses say. She was personally familiar with the nurses and hospital processes and I just really felt like I had a champion for my care. Delivery Room-- In the interest of TMI I'll say I came out of the delivery unscathed. Again after the delivery my doctor credited her direction for such a "seamless" delivery. I really don't know what we would have done without her. Post Natal/Lactation- She provided some post natal services to us as well...including lactation support which was which was simple and more effective than I'd received from the lactation consultants at the hospital and a popular lactation center we went to. In short and in long...love Andrey so much. She was EVERYTHING--a real blessing to our family. read more

Andrey made my birth experience the most beautiful event in my life. When I first met Andrey at my midwife's clinic, I knew she had to be part of my birth in some way or form- it was the way she talked to me and asked me questions. I asked her and she told me she was a doula! I felt incredibly blessed to have her at my side. She came to my birthing classes with me, she answered midnight freakout calls, she took me to eat Jamaican food, she soothed me physically and emotionally. I'm not sure there was one thing she didn't do to help ease me through my pregnancy- which was difficult on me emotionally. When I went into labor, she slept side by side with me as I transitioned into active labor- helping me with breathing exercises and reassuring me through my process. I don't think yelp is big enough to describe the step by step care she provided me. Besides being my guide through my pregnancy, I am most thankful for the fact that Andrey helped me through my transition into becoming a mother. Even besides a long labor, it was her conversations with me during pregnancy, into labor, and postpartum that helped me through my journey into realizing that I am a mom. geesh! Andrey is an incredible doula yes- but also just a beautiful healer and human being. #lemonlaw read more

Andrey Lemon, Doula - Andrey with my zuzu latte. #babywhisperer #lemonlaw - Doulas Near Me

My husband and I met with Andrey during my 36th week of pregnancy. As a new mom of twin girls, I was hoping to work with someone who could help us during the first few weeks of the girls' lives as well as give me advice on breastfeeding. We liked what she had to say during our interview process. Our girls ended up in the NICU for 11 days and had breastfeeding issues. We started working with Andrey the day after they came home. Andrey insisted we try the SNS (supplemental nursing system) to help our girls learn to breastfeed. The SNS system is a complicated set of tubes that is supposed to allow babies on the breast with a little tube that goes into the baby's mouth so they feed on your nipple but get formula or breast milk through the tube. The system cost $70. She tried it with me in the middle of the night. It was messy. My daughter cried immediately. It didn't work. She quickly abandoned the system that we used only once. Next, she told me to keep a schedule of feeding the girls and pumping every 2 hours. I had been feeding & pumping every 3 hours, which was the schedule the NICU staff had the girls on. I tried to feed/pump every 2 hours and found that between two babies, I had about 10 minutes of a break between feeds/pumps. As a brand new mom, I was beyond exhausted by this schedule. And post C-section, my body was still recovering. That night, we told Andrey that we wanted to go back to feeding every 3 hours. She said she understood. But the very next morning, she told us, "You really need to feed every 2 hours." When I told her again that it was very demanding and exhausting schedule, she said, "That's what nursing is like. As a mom, you have to make sacrifices." I felt like a terrible mom. She also gave us false information, such as telling me that I could dedicate one breast to one girl, like the left breast could belong to baby A. When I met with a certified lactation consultant, she told me that was wrong and that one of breast made more milk than the other--so one baby would have gotten less milk than the other. Andrey billed herself as someone who was here to support the mother, but after two nights and trying to talk to her, I found her unsympathetic and frankly, gave me more stress than it was worth. We let her go after working with her for two nights. read more