After interviewing a few doulas, I found Jen and knew right away that she would be the best fit for…read moreme, especially as a first-time mom. Her experience as both a nurse and a doula is amazing, but what stood out to me most was her genuine passion for all things birth-related. Her positive, reassuring energy is just an added bonus. Before the birth, we had a few sessions where Jen educated my husband and me about the birth process, what to expect, and the different decisions we might face during labor and delivery. Having her knowledge and guidance helped me feel so much more relaxed and confident throughout my pregnancy. Instead of obsessively researching every possible scenario that could go wrong, I felt like I had someone I trusted who could help me navigate whatever came up. When I went into labor, my husband and I were able to rely on Jen for guidance and support all the way through delivery and even afterward. I ended up having an incredible birth experience, and I truly attribute so much of that to having Jen as part of my support system. I was able to give birth in a position that felt comfortable and natural to me, had no tearing(!!!), and had a quick and smooth delivery. I would absolutely recommend Jen to anyone looking for a doula, and I honestly can't imagine giving birth again without her if I can help it! We are so grateful for everything she did for our family and feel extra special that our baby got to be her 350th birth. Thank you so much, Jen!!

We took an EBB course with Jennifer. She's the best instructor anyone can ask for. She was very…read moreknowledgeable and absolutely amazing with how she shared her knowledge and taught the class, she's super through, had a great attitude and energy, was very open to question, and even shared her very personal experience in the last class. I learned so much in her class. She took her time collecting so many resources and putting them together in ways that were easy to consume and refer to afterwards. I woud highly recommend her class. And even though i didn't get the opportunity to use her doula services, I can't imagine a better doula by your side.

Dr Van Brunt is great! I believe she is newer to Dignity Health so she had the most availability…read moreand I was able to get an appointment within a couple weeks (unlike many OBGYN Doctors in Central Sacramento. She was very patient with my questions and talked through my history abs health, and you could tell she genuinely cared. She didn't seem to be rushing me or making me feel like I was taking her time. She was also very efficient and delicate with the dreaded yearly exam, which I was incredibly grateful for. My 4:5 rating is for Dignity. I am disappointed to pick them knowing now that they are not a part of the EPIC system. The centralized patient data is beyond helpful, and they have an a required free standing system that can't pull history. This is annoying because you have to go back through your whole life of medical history to get their data accurate. UC Davis had all that pulled up for me as I was being examined, so it was more comfortable. Also, the nurse here was entering my info on paper with a pen, which is also incredibly antiquated. She took down info that then the Dr was supposed to read while she was there with me? It would have been smoother if the nurse entered it on the computer and then Van Brunt could click through to see what was important to her, not try to navigate the handwriting (which was a little awkward). I also didn't like all that on paper, and wonder what their shredding process is. Lastly, the portal is outside their Dignity portal and has to be sent after the appt - ONLY if you ask. This is really maddening that in 2020 patients can't go access their past visit notes and view past years (assuming I go here for years.) the Dr/Patient communication via the portal seems vital, and efficient so why is this not a standard process. Again, they are outdated and inefficient here. Maybe this is not important to you, but I wish I knew beforehand because I don't think I would have chosen the Dignity Health umbrella knowing they don't have centralized data.

Today was my first visit with Dr. Pane. My previous two gynecologists retired while I lived out of…read morestate and I was sort of dreading starting over with a new GYN. Happily, I instantly felt comfortable with Dr. Pane (as well as her medical assistant - wish I'd gotten her name, and she was great). For the last 20 years, I have had the same complaint at nearly every gynecological visit, which was always attributed to one particular condition without much investigation aside from labs. This has never sat right with me, and I often have felt unheard, dismissed, and concerned that something was being missed. I also felt like my doctors sort of blamed me for my condition, when I have tried everything I can think of to improve it. That all changed yesterday. After listening to my concerns, Dr. Pane did a more thorough exam than I'm used to having. She gave me a potential diagnosis that FINALLY explains my daily experience. Out of the 6 gynecologists I've seen in the last 20 years, not one ever mentioned this. Even though there isn't necessarily a permanent fix for me, I have peace of mind that I have an answer now, a better idea of how to treat symptoms, and a doctor who truly listens to me. Thank you Dr. Pane! (I won't dock Dr. Pane for this - as another reviewer noted, Dignity Health does not use the Epic/MyChart system and Dignity's portal system is horrible. Dr. Pane worked around that by emailing me my labs THE NEXT DAY instead of making me wait until they were released in Dignity's portal system. Dignity's portal system does not autorelease lab/imaging/ procedure reports for patient viewing and often holds them for as long as 10 days until the physician goes in and releases them, whereas MyChart makes results immediately available, often before the ordering physician sees them. I moved from out of state and the system I came from used Epic/MyChart - I requested Dignity to connect their portal system to my out of state health system to transfer my gynecology records well over a year ago and they said they were working on it, but nothing ever happened. So Dr. Pane was not able to access pathology reports she needed from my old health system and had to base her treatment plan for me based on my faulty memory of what the reports said, just FYI).

I had my initial consultation scheduled for this particular physician. The appointment day and time…read morewas provided to me by her office according to her availability. On the day of my appointment I was informed that my appointment was being moved to the last appointment for the day. That would have been fine except I had rearranged my schedule to fit the appointment time originally provided by her office. I arrived at 4:15PM, 15 minutes early and paid online. I set myself down in the waiting room to be called in to see the doctor. Her medical assistant was very pleasant as she called me back and sat me in the office as I awaited to see the doctor. Well, she didn't come in for another 15 or 20 minutes. She came & introduced herself unapologetically. She did not address her tardiness, or her rearrangement of my original appointment time. This was supposed to be an initial 30 min New Patient consultation to address some very important concerns regarding my health, although I only took up 15 minutes of her time, even though she was late. I felt uncomfortable at what I perceived to be her aloofness, nice/nasty attitude. I'm sure she's probably a decent doctor at her craft, but I cannot recommend her. Back to the drawing board in search of a kind, compassionate OB GYN doctor.

This is my review I'm happy to beable to have her as my DR. and I'm so happy that she understands…read moreme very well. Also I'm happy for what she did during my surgery in March I'll recommend her to others who needs a DR. that understands them.

Megan and Jordan provided us with an incredibly informative and effective course in preparing for…read morechildbirth. We were aiming for a natural birth experience in a hospital setting, and the Bradley Method has a great reputation for fully preparing women and their partners. When we told the OB we were taking a Bradley Method class, she was very pleased - in her experience, it's been the absolute best preparation for natural birth. We had a phenomenal birth experience, and I credit the class with Megan and Jordan completely. We learned so much from them and were given so much confidence in ourselves. My husband was a full participant because he had been through the class with me, and knew all the ways to support me during the weeks leading up to delivery and during labor. We ended up with a beautiful, healthy baby without any pain medication or other interventions. We knew exactly what to expect at each step of the way, and we were able to be calm and actually enjoy the event. All of the nurses at the hospital commented on how remarkably relaxed we were - that was a state of mind and approach that we learned and practiced with Megan! Participating in a Joy Love Birth class was by far the best investment of time or money we've ever made. Childbirth is an event you'll remember forever, and being well-prepared and in control will make all the difference in the world as far as how you look back on it. Not every type of birth class will prepare you to feel like your own body is in control of the delivery, and I'm so grateful that we found one that did.

I agree with every glowing review on this yelp page, and add to them my own amazing JoyLoveBirth…read moreexperience!! My husband and I were determined to gain a thorough understanding of pregnancy and childbirth. We wanted to know what was going on, what was going to happen, and what we could do to keep mama and baby healthy and safe throughout! Megan was PHENOMENAL!!! We both looked forward to class every single week - each lesson offered a gold mine of valuable, applicable information that was passionately delivered by Megan and her husband, Jordan. After each class, my husband and I would talk for hours about what we learned and felt inspired to dive into more research about evidence based birth. I absolutely loved that the incredibly well-informed Megan and her fun, clear, powerful teaching style led my husband to start trying to teach his co-worker buddies all about it! Thanks to her Bradley Class, Eric and I were super united from the beginning and we built so much trust together leading up to the birth. He ended up being an amazing birth partner and we owe much of that to Megan's efforts to train us well! I also really appreciated her help drafting and fine tuning our birth plan - she pays such attention to detail and really tailors her efforts for each student because she CARES. This isn't just a job for her, it's her joy and her mission to help mothers and their partners have the best, most informed pregnancy/birth adventure. We also had the ultimate privilege and blessing of Megan's support as our doula. Having become so motivated to have our choices respected and to have a natural, unmedicated birth, we knew we needed Megan in our ranks. This woman is a powerhouse! Seriously so tireless, endlessly patient and calm, prepared for anything. For nearly 20 hours, Megan provided the absolute best encouragement, love, and strength. I needed her! The hubby was well trained, and I definitely needed him there to hold my hand, sway with me, hold me in the shower, etc., but the comfort of an experienced, knowledgeable, strong and loving female to understand me and what I was going through was irreplaceable. There were times when she was right there kneeling on the floor with me adding essential oils to my shower that brought peace to my body and soul and always had a warm washcloth to keep me from getting cold, times when she squeezed my back and hips to help steady the power rushing through, times where she sweetly and reverently watched over us as my husband did his best to support me. Every minute, she was in tune with the process. Though the labor was a long one, I never doubted our mission because of her presence. She is a truly amazing guardian of the birth experience. My husband and I felt so safe in the hospital setting and at home with her on our team. Also, her ability to build up a wonderful rapport with the medical staff helped create a harmonious and happy setting for the birth. We will treasure the months we had with Megan that led up to the greatest moment of our lives!!! Couldn't have been better! We highly recommend her class and her doula skills to any that are lucky enough to snag her!! PS on top of EVERYTHING else she was doing to help us, she also took some wonderful photos of our labor and delivery!! #MVP

If you're in the market for a best in class midwife to assist with your home birth, I highly…read morerecommend Christie from Cambridge Midwifery Care. Christie did such an excellent job caring for me and my family from the first time we came to her clinic through pregnancy and birth and well beyond the postpartum period. Not only did Christie bring a deep knowledge of traditional midwifery care, but also her expertise around nutrition and the natural holistic approach of her practice were what made such a big difference for me in this pregnancy. The prenatal visits were detailed, personal and every discomfort I experienced was met with a suggestion on how to provide relief rather than it being dismissed as another pregnancy symptom. Along the way, Christie made sure to provide options and education for her treatment so I could make the best decision for me and my family. I couldn't have asked for a more positive and empowering home birth experience. Whether it's your first or fourth pregnancy, every woman should have the blessing to experience a natural childbirth and with the support of Christie I was able to do that in the most beautiful way, from the comfort of our home.

Christie was a wonderful presence during our prenatal appointments and home birth. She always had a…read morecalm and comforting demeanor that made us feel we were in good hands. Christie was one of three midwives that attended our birth. She woke our oldest daughter after our baby was born and led her into the room to meet her sister. My oldest still recalls this happy memory and felt very comfortable with Christie. She also allowed our daughter to help with the care of baby and mom after the birth, explaining things and giving her attention. We will always be grateful for her kindness, knowledge and care during the best experience of our lives. Much love and gratitude from the Cole family.

This review is long overdue my baby is almost 2... but not a week goes by that I don't think fondly…read moreof and appreciate the care I received from Birthstream! My husband was very hesitant to have a home birth but Leslie and Rachel took time to understand his concerns and were mindful of us as individuals through the process. I really appreciate the at home visits, I have another child and for her to experience listening to the heartbeat etc was an experience that I am so grateful to have - the care you receive from the midwives through your pregnancy and during birth and after birth is SO valuable! I can't say enough positive things about my experience and I would recommend the Birthstream team to any of my friends and family in the Sacramento area. To highlight, my favorite parts about their care, in home visits usually lasting an hour, holistic knowledge and care, truly making sure you have informed decision making, and the after birth visits were the best and so wonderful. THANK YOU Birthstream for being a part of our families story, I am so grateful for the wonderful experience we had throughout pregnancy, birth and beyond. I really believe that the care we received set my baby and I up for great success!

If you're on the fence about homebirth I cannot recommend it enough. Birth can be the most…read moreempowering, safe experience when you are truly supported and cared for. Rachel and Lesley are incredibly experienced and knowledgeable midwives. They are kind and communicate well. I'm getting emotional just thinking of our journey together to get me my sweet baby. Get the consultation, you won't regret it. Instead of spending hours waiting on the phone or in doctors offices talking to someone who does not know you, you will be seen and heard by midwives whose priority is you. You are where you're most comfortable in your home for hour long visits focused on the health of you and your baby.

My first time giving birth at home! Labor itself wasnt easy or smooth but i am so thankful to these…read morewomen who took great care of me during pregnancy and labor! Reene and Ingles are amazing, they care for you like for their own family member! You ladies are amazing!!!!

I unequivocally recommend Renee Hanevold for prenatal care and home birth. As a CNM with former L&D…read moreexperience in several hospitals, she has delivered thousands of babies, and has seen many, many different kinds of births. She is committed to home birth as a better birth process, and because of her background she really knows what she is talking about, both about the problems that can come from hospital care and how to watch for serious medical issues that require that hospital care. Renee attended the water birth of my son (she supplied the tub). She helped me through the complication of early water breaking (four days before deliver). We had a successful home birth without pitocin, but I was confident that if we had needed to, Renee would have made the call to transfer to the hospital in a timely, non-emergency manner. Her calm, confident presence at the birth made all the difference for me. Though it is unusual, I had a tear from my birth that required stitches (normally tears can be left to heal better than sewing, but mine was a different kind) and Renee sewed me so well that several doctors who examined me since commented on what an amazing job the person had done on my stitches. For prenatal care, Renee isn't in a hurry, she gives as long as it takes to get your questions answered. She orders routine prenatal labs and ultrasounds when you need / want them, but doesn't force you to get tests you don't want. She also takes care to help mothers prepare emotionally for birth and parenthood, and she welcomes dads at prenatal visits as well. Also, she can really feel what that baby is doing inside you. Even when I couldn't tell, she knew exactly where he was and what he was doing in there. I have no regrets whatsoever about choosing Renee for my home birth, and I only hope that if I have another child I will be able to have her again, or find another midwife at least half as good.

Dr. Chu was on call when I needed a C-section in 6/2022. He is such a nice and kind man and…read moredelivered my 10 pounder with care and precision. Ladies, I do not have a bikini body, but if I did have one, I barely have a C-section scare! He is an excellent surgeon. I'm back admitted here at Sutter downtown Sac.and I will not be sad if he ends up doing my next C-section. Thank you Dr. Chu!

As I reflect on my first pregnancy and my first delivery I think I have things to add to my…read moreprevious review. Dr. Chu has a great bedside manner, calm cool and collected. Makes you feel at ease and comfortable. I did not see any other doctors in the office while in prenatal care with dr chu. What I want to add is a few things centered around my delivery itself. Firstly, I had one (maybe 2?) appointments where my blood pressure was higher than normal and this caused for concern and Dr chu suggested that if I had the high blood pressure again he would recommend inducing my labor on or near my due date. What ended up happening was my blood pressure leveled out and he said we wouldn't need to induce. I ended up going into spontaneous labor with no intervention or swabs/sweeps a week early. As mentioned in my previous review, Dr chu was not on call or working that day but he came in and delivered my baby anyway. He was encouraging and present for my 4 hours of pushing. We ended up having to do pitocin because my baby was showing signs of distress and wasn't progressing as expected. Eventually i ran out of steam and didn't have much left in my tank even with the epidural. We needed an intervention. C section was briefly brought up but luckily we didn't go that route. Some Doctors will bring up c sections with much less reason to do so. I'm glad Dr chu didn't push that Onto me. What we did do was a vacuum birth. It was a little scary for me but it's what was needed to get my baby out safely. Now that I'm almost due to have my second and no longer can see Dr chu due to insurance i appreciate his care and service more than ever. I do not know the doctors at my current facility and will not meet anyone prior to giving birth. It worries me not knowing what my Dr will be like this time around. If you are pregnant and want a good experience with an OB, Dr chu is an excellent choice,