Where do I even begin? Zoe was an absolute godsend to me throughout my…read morefertility/pregnancy/birth/postpartum journey. I like to think of myself as a happy medium with eastern and western medicine: I knew that I wanted to give birth in a hospital, have an epidural - but I wanted a doula to help me mind/body/spirit prepare for this incredible journey. Zoe wonderfully catered to me, helped to educate me, and met me where I was with love and understanding.
I initially contacted Zoe after trying 6 months to get pregnant with no success. I had voiced my concerns to my OBGYN at Adams Patterson who just disregarded it because it had been less than a year and I was under 35. I don't care if you've been trying for months, years -- it's still painful to not get that plus sign on the pregnancy test. So, I decided to contact Zoe as a first step. She listened to me, reassured me, comforted me. She had me delete the anxiety-inducing apps -- and she walked me through a holistic, healthy way to get pregnant. She helped me to prep my mind, body, and spirit to house a new baby. I soon became pregnant after working with her for two months. I was over the moon - and surprisingly terrified. I wanted this so badly - but now ... what?
I worked with Zoe throughout my pregnancy taking her childbirth, breastfeeding, postpartum, and baby care classes. I also saw her for coaching throughout my pregnancy. Due to COVID, all of my classes were online - and Zoe did a great job keeping the classes fun and informative -- as well as comfort me as a first time mama giving birth during a health epidemic.
Ladies -- hear this, too: she also consistently checked in on my husband. She made him feel a part of the process - which helped us to bond and prepare for our little one's arrival. My husband didn't quite understand why I needed a doula - but after working with Zoe throughout the pregnancy, he was very comforted and thankful to have her support.
Then came the birth. Zoe worked with our hospital (Baptist) to submit the correct paperwork so that she could work with us and be present despite COVID19. THANK YOU, GOD, that Zoe was there. I ended up being induced 8 days past my due date - progressed quickly - completely dilated - but my baby's head went transverse at the end - and she ended up being wedged in my right side. After pushing for 3 hours, I had to have an emergency c-section. I didn't have my mom with me. I clung to my husband's hand. Honestly, I had never been more scared in my life. Zoe comforted my husband and me during a very long day of labor and unexpected outcomes -- and she helped to communicate with my very worried family that couldn't be present due to COVID.
We also worked with Zoe postpartum. Zoe came over and helped me with the basics that my tired/sleep deprived brain couldn't comprehend: breast pumps, bottles, swaddles, baby carriers. Zoe took care of me in a time where I had forgotten how to take care of myself and this new little precious baby. She was always available on text, too, for questions, worries, concerns as a new mama.
I cannot recommend having Zoe enough. She is such a gift to Memphis. Before I got pregnant, I knew that I wanted to work with a doula. I'm so thankful that I listened to my intuition and found Zoe -- even before COVID19 hit. Zoe has made me a stronger woman - learning to advocate for myself, family, and new baby. Trust your gut as you're reading this review and hire Zoe. You will be so grateful.