For the birth of our first child, we were swept into the Private Hospital System. We were very happy with our Obstetrician, but after the hospital childbirth course, it became clear that very few women have a natural birth without intervention in this system.
Our goal was to have a natural birth without pain relief, this we believed would be the best start for the baby and myself in terms of recovery after the birth. We attended local independent ‘birth classes’, which opened our eyes and resonated with our way of thinking. The idea of a doula/birth assistant was revealed to us in this course, and we knew this was the way we wanted to proceed.
On our initial meeting, I felt an instant calm and strength from Stephanie and knew that I wanted her at the birth of my son. Stephanie was positive, non-judgmental and supportive of our ideas. She also offered valuable information and experience in childbirth that we were obviously lacking at this point.
My labour proceeded very slowly. Stephanie was not only supportive to myself, but my partner during this long, and at times stressful, process. Through three changes of midwives, it was very important for us to have the consistency and friendly familiar face of Stephanie by our side.
She was compassionate, encouraging, caring and untiring in her role as support person to Sean and myself, giving us confidence and strength that we didn’t know we had. Stephanie was not only an emotional support, but also supportive in the more physical aspects of labour, keeping me active and calm.
I believe that Stephanie went above and beyond her duty as our doula, to stay with us for 12 hours and help achieve the eventual natural birth of our son Kai.
The fact that I managed to have a natural birth and avoid pain relief is definitely due to the support, experience and care given by Stephanie. Without her encouragement, calm manner and positive outlook I am certain, that we would have been lead down the road of intervention for the birth of our son. Stephanie helped us to achieve our goal and assisted in the miracle of bringing our beautiful son safely into the world. Hence, without a second thought, we have asked her to be our doula for the birth of our second child.
We would highly recommend Stephanie Norquay to anyone who is looking for a supportive, compassionate, experienced birthing assistant.
Anita, Sean, Kai & Torin – 2009
