Madalyn was amazing. We're due in a few months and did her birth class at the perfect time. We…read morecouldnt be more grateful that we found her! She has such an amazing amount of understanding and compassion (and charisma!) - and explains everything very clearly of what to expect throughout the final stages of pregnancy, labor, and even early postpartum. She gives great tips along the way and shows you all your options throughout that journey. Love her and couldn't recommend it enough! Even my husband (or as Madalyn calls each partner: coach) also feels confident now as we navigate these precious stages of birth & newborn life. 10/10!

Madalyn was fantastic to work with. Her positive energy, excellent communication, and upbeat…read moreattitude made the experience enjoyable. She explained everything clearly, answered every question with patience, and made the process feel easy and stress free. I highly recommend working with her! She kept it real!

I read so often, "Birth doesn't go as planned so you don't need to take a class" and it just…read moretotally blows my mind. Birth doesn't go as planned and that's exactly why you DO need to take a class. An in depth class. Britta's class. I approached my pregnancy as a 9 month grad school class. I took it upon myself to read books, journal articles, blogs, engage on online discussion groups, listen to podcast... really everything I could to learn the ins and outs of this journey I was on. My husband read a book. Kind of. He definitely skimmed it. I knew that our vocabularies were so different that we needed to find a class that would allow us to have a shared lexicon to properly communicate. I researched (like everything else) just about every class type offered in the greater Los Angeles Metro Area and I was just called to Embodica. My husband likes to refer to a lot of what I'm into as "hippie s**t." From that statement, it's clear he is not. I spoke to Britta on the phone before the class began, worried that her class would be too "wooey" for him, but after our conversation I knew she was grounded and funny enough that he would be won over. Because man did he have to be won over when I showed him the website. Our first class was an eyeopener for both of us. We were one of 6 couples, all due within two months of each other. My husband saw the focal point in the middle of the circle and arched an eyebrow--he just knew we paid a lot of money for woo-woo crap. Then Britta began to talk and I saw him perk up and really began to listen. When Britta demoed what a real contraction could look like, he was all in. Later that evening when we practiced comforting our partners while holding ice, I learned that he thought singing "Henry the VIII I Am" and some Queen son were appropriate comforting strategies, and so the revelation I they were not before labor probably saved our marriage and/or his life. Over the six weeks of class, we learned so much. Despite my exhaustive research, actually learning from someone as knowledgable and grounded as Britta allowed me to put all the information I was learning in context. My husband was able to learn the ins of out of the technical side of all things pregnancy/labor. Together, we developed a coping strategy that worked well for both of us. So yes, you cannot prepare for birth. I was pretty sure when push came to shove, I would lock myself in a room by myself and push everyone away (the perks of a homebirth is that I really could do this!). Yet, when things actually started, I needed my husband to be there for me. We used everything we learned in Britta's class over the course of my 55 hour unmedicated labor. My husband was able to truly comfort me and meet my needs in a way I know for a fact he wouldn't have been able to do before our class. We now talk to a lot of the other couples through a private little FB group one of the mom's created and are planning on meeting up soon so all the babies can meet. My husband and I also reflect on our time in that class often as we navigate the "4th trimester." As a parting gift, Britta gave each member of the class a labyrinth necklace. I haven't taken mine off since I put it on shortly before I went into labor and my husband's cord just broke as he would thumb the pendant so often. It's a reminder that our journey is continuing and to give ourselves patience and grace as we navigate this new world of parenthood. My husband and I will both be forever grateful for our experience in Britta's class and wholeheartedly recommend it to every couple preparing to welcome their child into the world. Oh, and as an aside, I really love how Britta used non-gendered terms even though we were all heterosexual, cis couples. "Birthing partner," "supporting partner," etc. Speaking to trans and lesbian couples, I know finding a safe and supportive birthing class can be difficult, so I think it's important to point this out.

My husband and I felt so lucky to have attended this workshop. We had not taken any other…read morechildbirth classes but we both felt more than sure that we ended up at the best one in the world. Britta's skill as a mentor, storyteller, listener, and communication guide are unmatched and I cannot possibly imagine anyone better suited to exactly the work she does with parents-to-be. I learned so much, yet never felt overwhelmed with information since she made the day so interactive. There is so much that I took with me not only into labor and childbirth but in parenting, life, and my relationships with my partner, my self, and my environment - without a specific to-do list or set of stock instructions. I loved how all the learning was connected to deep reflection into the senses for I believe that this is how real learning takes place - in the whole self.... After we had our baby my husband and I went to Britta for couples counseling and we had another great experience. The three of us sat in her lovely studio and she helped mediate difficulties we were having. Things have been so much better ever since that one session!!

After searching far and wide, I chose to work with Debbie @AuthenticBirth through Los Angeles birth…read morepartners. Her warm energy and thoughtful expertise helped me feel confident. She personally picks up your placenta and drops off and even includes a cord keepsake. The price is fair and well worth it, she even takes the time to call and answer any questions you may have beforehand. Wonderful overall- I have referred her to some of my friends and family.

I really want to thank Debbie for being so wonderful. She is such a professional in her field, and…read moreso knowledgeable. In the crazy tumultuous times of labor and welcoming a newborn into your life, the last thing you wanna do is an extra task. But Debbie was ON IT. she was so well informed, kind and a great communicator. She worked with us, navigated all the Hospital paperwork, had the dried placenta pills delivered it so promptly!!!! I would wholeheartedly recommend this to all mamas to be. Excellent experience all around! Thank you Debbie and LA Birth Partners!

I'm so ready after this! Jana is incredibly knowledgeable and was such a great guide through this…read morenerve-inducing process, full of many twists and turns! The class is fun, engaging and informative. I looked forward to class each week. I've read a handful of books and none of them gave me as much clarity and confidence on how to navigate the birth process as Jana's class did. Can't recommend highly enough!

Jana is the most amazing woman I have ever met. Her classes are so informative and amazing. She…read moreknows her information and she teaches her classes with such passion and love. I would like to address the review that said Jana used a false testimonial. She is the most trustworthy, open, honest, person I know and under no circumstances would she ever do or make anyone feel or write a false testimonial. She has educated and loved hundreds of woman and I have never heard not one complain about her. She has one of the most kind hearts you can imagine. Just trust in your heart and take her class and you will see how kind she is. You will not be disappointed. I have taken her classes. I have done the birthing class and doula training. Jana only has love to give. She's a beautiful soul. Im sure the hundreds of woman will agree. Regarding the dogs she is very aware and asks everyone about the dogs. If it bothers or annoys anyone she handles it. She is not insensitive. Throughout the whole class she is on top of the dogs behavior. The bottom line is if you want to be really informed go to Jana's class because you won't be disappointed. Your birthing experience will be much better in my eyes because you will be so much more informed because of the knowledge that Jana teaches you. Trust your heart not one bad review. Love you Jana. Your the best.

Sheri is truly incredible a baby sleep whisperer! I only wish I had found her when I had my first…read morebaby. When we started working together, my daughter was waking every hour, and I honestly didn't think sleeping through the night was possible. Sheri confidently told us she could help, and she absolutely delivered. Within just a few weeks, our daughter was sleeping most of the night, and by 4 months old, she was sleeping through the night consistently. What sets Sheri apart is that she doesn't just give you a plan she educates and supports you every step of the way. She is responsive, compassionate, and genuinely invested in your family's success. Even as second time parents, my husband and I learned so much and came away feeling far more confident. If you're exhausted and wondering if better sleep is possible, trust Sheri. She exceeded every expectation, and I can't recommend her highly enough!!!

Sheri has been such an immense help in sleep training my daughter who was born a preemie! Sheri is…read moreknowledgeable, kind, supportive, and available. I learned so much from her! Any mother and/or family would be lucky to learn from her!

My wife and I did a lactation session with Shaina before giving birth and it was SO incredibly…read morehelpful for our breast feeding journey!! Shaina's class was fun and thorough and we recommend her to any new parents we meet!

Can't say enough good things about Shaina. We did a prenatal virtual appointment, which was super…read morevaluable since our baby ended up coming a few weeks early, and have had home visits since. When we have an appointment with her, it feels like Christmas morning, because she helps you problem solve and reminds you that everything is going to be OK! She is so knowledgable, yet laidback, and is such a comforting and fun presence, in such an emotionally and physically vulnerable time. Her follow up communications after appointments are very helpful, since it's of course hard to remember everything that was said. Highly recommend her!

My Postpartum Doula Workshop experience was truly life changing. It was positive, eye opening,…read moreinspiring, and, at times, overwhelming in the very best way. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was in such a safe, welcoming space. The energy was incredible, and being surrounded by such a wonderful group of women made the experience even more special. There was so much learning, sharing, encouragement, and connection. And Kathrin, our trainer, was absolutely amazing. Her knowledge, passion, the way she guided us through the workshop made such an impact on me. She created an environment where I felt comfortable learning and truly taking in everything this beautiful work has to offer. Honestly, I would do this workshop all over again not because I needed to, but because I would love to experience that same energy and connection with another group of women. Every group brings something different, and I can only imagine how beautiful each experience can be. I highly recommend Kathrin's Postpartum Doula Workshop to anyone who is interested in becoming a postpartum doula. It is an experience I will carry with me as I begin this new chapter. Lizette

Ana Paula is a wealth of knowledge and compassion. She's a beautiful mix of warm and calming with a…read morefun energy and the utmost professionalism.

My husband and I took the all day virtual birthing class with Liz. The class was extremely…read moreinformative and gave us both confidence going into delivery. Liz has a very calming and relatable demeanor and is super personable. Highly recommend this to anyone looking to learn more about labor and delivery. If you're in the Santa Monica area you may even be lucky enough to have her deliver your baby! I could not speak more highly of the class and Liz!

We took Liz's class September 2015, about a month before I had my son. it was well worth the money!…read moreAlthough I had been doing a ton of reading to gear up for labor and life with baby my husband was very ill prepared. He had other stresses to worry about then try to read a bunch of stuff. Taking Liz's 2 week birthing class really helped open his eyes and equip him for what lay ahead (as well as myself). I personally loved her down to earth attitude, her wit and sense of humor! She's realistic and will be honest with you about the processes and what the nurses at the hospital are really thinking behind the scenes! I loved that because it really helped me to gage what are realistic expectations and what are just fluff in the books and mommy groups (especially on the Westside of LA). I most definitely would recommend her class to a friend and already have!

Now that I am on my 3rd child, I keep coming back to The Pump Station. Each time I've gone there,…read moreI've had a great experience. The staff is friendly and attentive. Not only does the staff help with my indecisions, but they are also knowledgeable about all-things car seats, pumping, breastfeeding and more! It feels like a full-service experience and I am so glad they offer so many services and support in my city; I don't ever have to go elsewhere. Easy parking in the street or in their lot in the back. Convenient hours. Location cannot be beat!

Really disappointed in my experience today. I drove two hours to this location to support a local…read morebusiness. For one, I was not greeted or asked if I needed help when entering the store. More importantly, their website said the stroller I wanted was in stock and available in 4 hours for pickup, but when I got there it wasn't available for purchase and it had to be ordered. When I brought it up to the cashier, he said it was because they have it in store their inventory but not at the store? Huh?? After doing more digging I saw there was a "Terms and conditions" asterisk in fine print you have to click on to find out this information. All I saw was the green check mark that says "In stock and ready for pick up in 4 hours." Any other place I have ever been to- this would mean it would be in stock at the store. When I brought up, calmly, that this was confusing and they should fix it because I drove two hours to get to the store. The cashier said nothing. Not a "Aw geez, I'm sorry. I can understand your frustration and why that's confusing." I'm a reasonable person. I've worked in customer service all my life. The demeanor of the cashier alone has put me off from ever visiting this store again or recommending it. We went to Uppababy a few blocks down and they were SOOO kind that it completely made my day. All I needed was some kindness. To the owners of the Pump Station- the people using your website are most likely VERY tired moms. I personally am getting 3-4 hours of sleep a day. Tired moms need clear signage if something is in stock or not. Time is precious in this season of life. We also need KINDNESS. My body is broken and recovering from giving birth. I am exhausted! I would expect a place who sells baby items to understand this. Overall, would never recommend this place and will tell everyone I know that it was an awful experience.

I want to share my experience to be able to help future mothers and especially first time mothers…read moreto 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.

Absolutely incredible experience with Andrey! From the moment we met her, her calming presence put…read moreus 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!!!