“I found Nancy's support crucial to being able to react to my partner's needs.” - says Dad.

I felt instantly supported when I first talked to Nancy over the phone as she was so attentive to my birth plan and wanted to help in any way she could. She was also so positive about our birth journey and I really needed that since my first baby's birth was traumatic. Thank you for being our Doula Nancy! :)

We chose you because you wanted to support us as a family and that really meant a lot to us. You have a way of communicating that is very nurturing way that I found really helpful. Given that my first baby's birth was traumatic, you made me believe I could have a positive birth experience.

I also really loved how the post partum sessions were tailored to my requests. I was always so excited to see what you could cook up for us in the thermomix and spend some time chatting:)

Antenatal sessions were really special as I had a chance to connect with you, my baby and my husband in preparation for our labour journey. I loved the affirmation cards and the time spent to connect with Geoff as we embarked on this journey.

Nancy, you gave me a massage post partum which was amazing! I felt calm and relaxed during the massage and she was very attentive to my comfort level. Infant massage information was really great as well.

What was the most helpful thing I did to support you?: You helped empower me to take control of my baby's birth and to be an active participant equipped with evidence based resources.

What did you find to be the most helpful things to you in labour? : Vocalising and mental focus to be strong and empowered. I needed someone to talk me through the contractions and you helped me a lot with that Nancy.

Words of wisdom: The Birth journey is a unique journey filled with so many emotions form the highest of highs ti the lowest of lows. Nothing will ever really prepare you for your journey, but some words of wisdom would be to accept that things will not go according to your plan and you have to adapt in the moment. Also be prepared as much as you can with knowledge about your birth options. For example active birth, explore home birth, birth centres and Midwife programs at the hospital.

Practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you loved: I love the Australian birth stories podcast. This helped prepare me for my second baby's birth after a traumatic first birth. The work of Rachael Reed was also very informative.

Words from dad:

As the primary support for my pregnant wife it can be difficult to know what is helpful and what is hindering in the moment. I found Nancy's support crucial to being able to react to my partner's needs. Nancy always kept me included in the journey, and I found it easier to fulfill my role in our pregnancy and birth. Our birth would not have been the same without Nancy. I never felt removed from the journey, but empowered to provide the support I could.

Nancy made herself available to us at all times during labour. She was able to effectively communicate with us when we had low sleep, and had to make difficult decisions. Nancy's advice was proven to be correct many times during our pregnancy and birth. Her wealth of experience was invaluable.

When we ended up in an emergency C section Nancy stayed with me all the way until I could reunite my daughter with my wife. This was a particularly difficult time which was made bearable by having Nancy at my side.

I honestly believe Nancy's support made our pregnancy and birth a thriving experience, rather than just surviving it. Our outlook was positively transformed throughout the journey.

I would be happy to recommend Nancy to any pregnant couple. I felt the care far surpasses a private hospital.

Love Melissa, Geoff, Eli & Isabel