100% recommend. All I can say is WOW. This was a service I never knew I wanted or needed so…read moregreatly. Robin was an angel and a confidant. Real and trustworthy. She was there for me, my son, and my husband before, during, and after birth. Having her as part of my birth story will be something I'm forever grateful for and if I'm blessed enough to have another child, I'll want her on my team again. Ps: She offered to snap photos of when I gave birth, capturing moments I would never have had without her. What a gift.

I really wanted a great doula for a complicated pregnancy. But Robin slept through my son's birth,…read moreeven after I told her at 5 pm I was checking into the hospital the week of my due date. When I talked to Robin, she said she was at an event and didn't have a car with her so she couldn't leave to come to the hospital at that time, because she was dependant on someone else for a ride. She assured me she would come and said she'd never slept through a birth. She also told me most mothers labor for 12+ hours and not to worry since I wasn't dilated at all. I was given Cervidil. In the middle of the night my son's heart rate started dropping. Cervidil was removed, my son's heart rate stabilized and I was given two options: Do a more controlled C-section or try to labor longer and then likely have an emergency C-section. I tried to get ahold of Robin. She slept through the text and phone call. So I opted to do a more controlled C-section which took a while since I couldn't have an epidural and it took more than 30 minutes for the spinal to take. Robin never showed up to the hospital and it took weeks, months, to get a partial refund. I never got a full refund. She also didn't call a back-up doula. She made a really frustrating situation -- of sleeping through my son's birth -- even worse by having to spent weeks of back and forth emails (and my son was a NICU baby) trying to get some of my money back. More troubling she also sent an NDA to me -- which I didn't sign -- to try and make sure this wasn't disclosed. Accidents happen but the follow-up was more problematic. Yes, her father died in the weeks after my son's birth and that is awful, but sending an NDA to try and cover-up the situation of sleeping through a birth was really awful and weeks of emails to get a partial refund difficult as I was recovering from a difficult pregnancy and delivery was troublesome. This happened in the summer of 2017. It's taken me a long time to process everything. I'm sure most births aren't like this, but other expectant moms need to be aware. I would hate for anyone else to go through something like this.

I couldn't say better things about Rebekkah, if I did it would come off like a stalker. I love her,…read moreI have had her for both of my son's births. One with an epidural and one without. Her comfort of knowing what I needed and when I needed it was unmatched. Her knowledge about birth and positioning was amazing. She held what I valued and needed to a standard. And she was the strength I needed to continue on.

I found Rebekkah (supported serenity) through the Birth Center of Chicago's referral list, who…read moreworks in tandem with Amber (Lorelei Lu Doula), and after browsing many doula websites, I knew right away that they were the team I wanted by my side. They supported me through my entire prenatal, birth, and postpartum journey with such steady care.When the Birth Center of Chicago temporarily closed due to a staffing shortage, I had to transfer to Burr Ridge Birth Center (also wonderful!). Amber and Rebekkah ensured the transition was completely seamless, and I still felt fully supported during such a major change at seven months pregnant. Throughout my pregnancy, they offered calm reassurance and evidence-based guidance that truly prepared me for birth. I felt confident, grounded, and ready. Rebekkah attended my birth and later encapsulated my placenta--she even delivered the capsules with homemade cookies. During labor, her clear explanations of what was happening helped me stay present, focused, and connected to what my body was capable of. I'm endlessly grateful that I found them. I cannot recommend this doula team enough!

It has been almost 2 years since I've me Lara Lasky. On summer 2020 as soon as i decided to have a…read morehome birth I was in a search for midwife and doula. As always I listened to my intuition. So first doula I found didn't click, but second one was perfect match for me. Lara was nice, very informative from our first conversation. With her help I found a midwife. I was totally new in homebirthing, very excited aboit my first pregnancy though. Lara gave me lots of information. We had signed contract at our first meeting and it was pure pleasure to deal with her. During my pregnancy we've been since each other for reiki session, for reflexology session that she does. She was always enough, non judgmental, soothing and elencouraging,, positive, fun and very much helpful whenever I had guestion or concern. With my husband we attended her birth class where she explained and showed in details what is going to happen. Even though I was tired to listen, my husband remembered it all. And in time when it's happening mind goes to rest and great spirit works in cooperation with woman's body. It's an epic experience I can say. When time came Lara arrived very quickly in the middle of the night. And then she showed her power, knowledge in action!! She was there for me all the time, somehow she also manged to support my husband in the process. She brought ger own stuff. So there was essential oils to relax me, music to calm us all. She did amazing things with my back, supporting me everywhere, keeping me hydrated. We had moments of laughter. After my son was born I was exhausted and surprisingly for me I had to give birth to placenta. Lara saw me and felt me so good. She was holding my hand and I could lean on her like she was my mother without words she showed me that deep compassion and love in her eyes. I'm beyond grateful for Lara being with at birth of my son. She also helped me with afterbirth time. She did and teach us bending. She took care of my son, so I could sleep, prepared food for me and helped with laundry. I was surprised with how much she could do for a short period of time. Another important thing that we were texting when I was struggling with motherhood first months. And again she was there for me, once she even came late evening, when what I needed was a HUG and little talk, while I was at home by myself with my son and not being able to put him to sleep. Lara is truly a Gift for mothers who needs help with birth and afterbirth. Lots of blessing to her and her family!

Working with Lara was the best decision I made for my delivery. As last minute as I was(SUPER LAST…read moreMINUTE), she made it all work with me. I'm so happy she was there, as soon as she was, I felt more at ease and more comfortable. I turned to her for knowledge and solace. It was my first baby and I had no idea what to expect and my anxiety was through the roof. She was extremely patient with me and was there every step of the way. She made sure to look out for my best interests in labor and delivery, my golden hour with my babe and helped me with latching and breastfeeding. After delivery, she came to check on us and always sent a text every now and again to see how we were and if we needed anything. I've recommended her to family and friends whenever anyone has asked for a doula. And I will continue to recommend her and her business to anyone! Thank you to this wonderful practice!

I had a tough pregnancy so I decided to get a doula. Sarah and Erika were amazing the whole way…read morethrough. They were quick to respond, informative, and provided actionable steps to make pregnancy manageable. They have complementary styles and I appreciated having their expertise. When I changed my birth plan, they gave me information, support and they advocated for me. Even after I had my beautiful daughter, they checked in with me. They're both such kind, caring individuals. I highly recommend them! Birth was the most vulnerable and empowering experience of my life and I'm so glad I had them on my team!

I love Erika! I called many doulas to help me get through my first birthing experience before I…read morefound her and she was special. She combines intelligence with sensitivity, genuine care and support with medical knowledge. She is both gentle and tough when she has to - gave me the feeling of strength and security during the whole long night. She didn't leave my bedside except to get us beverages, didn't sleep at all for more than 24 hours straight and was alert and actively assisting us all the time. We were changing positions often, used fragrant oils for relaxation, she was massaging me and constantly checking if I or my husband needed anything. She's so amazing - I'd want to give birth just because she'd be by my side I contacted her postpartum numerous times with various baby care, self care and nursing questions and she helped me - and continues helping me even now - almost a year after our contract expired. She genuinely cares and I'm so glad I found her! Amazing doula!

: Not a nice person. Be sure to check her return policies…read morefor any items you consider purchasing as the belly binder a is ripped up sheet (muslin) that you can purchase at your local Joann's . This is the video I was given for the technique. I can't include it due to Yelp rules, but it is a regular person's YouTube account, not even one of the doulas or Maura. Search Bengkung Belly Binding on YouTube and a ton of videos will come up. The binder did not help me feel held in. I asked for a refund and was told the price was mainly for the doula coming to my house--which was unnecessary because the YouTube video was the guide. After continued times trying to reach a reasonable resolution, Maura told me that I was harassing her. (What the heck weirdo woman?) What doula worth anything speaks to a mom of a 2 week old that way. Beware!!!!!!!!! This doula is unstable and no new mom needs that. Get a Bellefit binder. It helps without dealing with a psycho doula.

Maura was a joy to work with before, during, and after the birth of my little one…read more She obviously approaches her work with a great deal of professionalism that isn't always present in the birthing world. For example, her email communication is clear and prompt, she is obviously very well organized, and she gave me sweet little new-mama-related gifts at our first meeting, as well as after Baby's birth. But all that is not reason enough to hire a doula, right? When I first met Maura, I must confess I was a bit dismayed by her youth. Although I knew she had lots of experience supporting births and more medical training than most doulas, there was a part of me that wanted an older presence on my birth team. Well, thankfully the rational part of me won out over this other, ageist part, because Maura was wonderful and everything we (my husband and I) could have wanted. And I'm sure she's probably not quite as young as she seemed that first day ;) My labor and birth were pretty quick, uncomplicated, and relatively painless. I don't think I actually noticed Maura much during the process. However, when I watched the video of my baby's birth (which Maura was happy to film and photograph for us), I noticed Maura was the one who'd pick up on how I was feeling and cheer me on when I seemed to need it, and my husband and mom (who I wanted hands-on with me) would follow her lead. She just seemed to have this way of fitting in and being exactly what we needed her to be at the time, even though we ourselves didn't know what that was. After Baby's birth, she provided encouraging support and a postpartum visit to see that all was going well for our family. She was pretty awesome answering my questions via text, about all things from newborn poop to homeopathic remedies. I know that she will soon begin to study midwifery, but if you find her still offering doula services, I would highly recommend adding her to your list of doulas to consider.

Leah Lemelin helped me trust my body more, feel calmer, and more present with what I was…read moreexperiencing. I felt more in command and confident throughout. I thought I wanted a doula just for the day of delivery but what I found was that the work we did together before delivery is what altered the whole experience. It was deeply supportive and prepared me in a way I didn't even know I needed or was possible. So, even if you are an experienced mom, you are having a traditional medical birth, having Leah as your doula will deepen your experience and give it back to you as truly yours in a profound way. I can't thank her enough for walking with me through it and guiding me into myself so I could remember my own agency and power and strength in it all.

Mary has been our lactation consultant for 1 year. She had been part of my support network since we…read moresaw her during an at-home visit when my daughter was 1 month old. I'd count her as one of the women that I've most leaned on as a first-time mother. She is a walking book of knowledge on everything child related. She is kind and passionate and always available. I'm not sure where we'd be without her. We are so grateful to have her in our lives.

Melanie the owner is super passionate about pregnancy birth postpartum experience and helped me…read moreevery step of the way. I would highly recommend her for ANY experience/items that she offers you won't be disappointed!

I can't say enough great things about Melanie. this was my first time encapsulating my placenta -…read moreand she was so kind, easygoing, thoughtful and insightful with the process. Im only 2 weeks postpartum and she has checked in on me more than some family members! she's hands down super professional and super sweet. I will definitely recommend her to everyone lol

If you are debating a doula, debate no more! Hillary Scharmann is exactly what every pregnant mama…read moreand expectant papa need. She'll walk you through the what to expect and prep you for delivery. She'll answer your questions, and if she can't, she'll find someone that can. Her commitment to supporting your family is 100%. We elected to deliver our baby boy in a hospital. While we had several concerns about being in a big medical space, Hillary put us at ease. She listened to all of our concerns. She took note of our fears and comforts. She was honest about the realities of delivery and the time leading up to it. While we feared induction and a long labor, she prepared us for what to advocate for to make it as natural and comfortable as possible (and thank goodness she did). Labor was no piece of cake. It was 36 hours from induction that our little guy arrived. Hillary spent 25 hours of that time with us. She was an advocate for us, asking all the questions we couldn't think to ask. She remembered those things that we said provide comfort to us and transformed the room to make it what we needed. She helped ease the pain with massages and encouraging movement (and that awesome peanut ball). She assisted in delivering the best part of our lives! We couldn't imagine those last 25 hours without her! Her services don't end when your baby arrives. She provides invaluable postpartum support. She is there when you are most vulnerable. She arrives to your house with treats and does your dishes, while she listens to the new parent woes. She makes you feel that you are normal. Normal is something we yearned for for those first six weeks. Birth is an incredible adventure, and no one person should experience it alone. If you are wavering on hiring a doula, do it no longer. Hire one! If you want the best, professional, personable, caring one out there hire Hillary Scharmann at HEART Birth & Baby.

One of the best decisions my husband and I made during pregnancy was to hire Hillary as our doula…read more As this was a first pregnancy and our first child, my husband and I were understandably nervous as to what the birth experience would entail. We wanted to ensure a calm, healthy and intervention-free delivery and Hillary helped us achieve that. The night I went into labor, Hillary arrived at the hospital a few minutes after my husband and I did and sprung into action immediately. She knew I wanted the environment to be calm and she somehow managed to create a spa-like atmosphere in the middle of a hospital. She dimmed the lights, turned on a relaxing playlist, provided aromatherapy, fluids and - most importantly - a heating pad for my aching back. She supported, encouraged and talked us through labor and because of her quick thinking, helped us avoid a C-section. I truly believe I was able to deliver my son the way I wanted because of her ability to work with my midwives. Hillary also provided us with the most precious gift - photos and videos of us meeting our son for the first time. I had no idea she was filming the first moment they laid my son on my chest and discovered it days later at home. I still cry every single time I watch the video. Most importantly, Hillary was a huge support after we took our baby home. I was beginning to show signs of postpartum anxiety and so my husband reached out to Hillary who, in turn, called me right away. She provided me with a lactation consultant (breastfeeding was the source of my anxiety) and a hotline for PPA help. Because of her quick action and support, I was able to very quickly overcome my breastfeeding challenges and my anxiety disappeared days later. If it had not been for her, I feel as though I really would have struggled through those first weeks. I cannot praise or thank Hillary enough for being there for us during this special time. I would wholeheartedly recommend her - I can't imagine delivering any future babies without her by my side.

Chaka was everything I had hoped for in a doula. She was so supportive and helped me feel that my…read morevoice was heard by my providers during my pregnancy and birth experience. I had a planned epidural and wondered whether a doula would be worth the cost but it completely was and I would do it all over again. She got my birth moving by turning me back and forth and using the peanut ball, she explained to me everything that was happening (at my request), and made me feel in control which was all that I could hope for as my first birth felt very out of control. I would recommend a doula for every birth and definitely recommend Chaka!

Chaka is beyond knowledgeable for all things from birth to newborns. She is empathetic, helpful and…read morealways available. I cannot recommend her enough to new parents or those experiencing parenthood again. She's the best gift you could gift yourself on this journey!