Testimonies
“Avila was truly the best. So grateful for her being part of my transition to motherhood. She shared so much helpful information which helped me both mentally and logistically prepare for birth. And her presence during labor was amazing! So peaceful + helpful.”
— Christine H.
“Avila’s labor support suggestions played a critical part in my precipitous labor. In a scary and unprecedented situation, Avila's training helped both my husband and myself be present, stay in the moment, and navigate labor with clarity, confidence and peace! It is clear Avila works hard to bring both a foundation of warmth and trust while also maintaining professionalism. Both my husband and I felt confident in her knowledge and trusting of her engagement, ideas, questions, etc. I would highly recommend Avila to any pregnant women in my life... and will!”
— Anna W.
“Avila is truly one of the most genuine, heartfelt people I’ve ever met. The sincerity of her care for me, my husband, and our baby was a lifeline of support throughout my pregnancy, labor, and transition into motherhood. Her practical, emotional, and spiritual support went beyond anything I could have imagined. She quickly came to feel more like a trusted friend and sister—cheering me on, gently guiding me, and holding my hand every step of the way.
During labor, Avila was like a guardian angel. In every moment I wanted to give up, her encouraging presence grounded me. I can honestly say that she is a big reason why I look back on my son’s birth as one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.
Our prenatal meetings prepared my husband and me for what to expect, helping us clarify our preferences without ever feeling pressured. It was always clear that no matter what I chose, Avila would support me 100%. She also gave my husband such helpful guidance on how to support me through labor in ways that were meaningful and effective.
I could go on and on—but suffice it to say, hiring Avila as our doula was one of the best decisions we made!!”
— Mary L.
"Kind, informative and judgement-free. As a mom who knew that I wanted an epidural and would accept medical intervention from the get-go I was nervous to work with a doula, but Avila was incredibly supportive of my goals from the beginning.
When I started my pregnancy journey I knew I wanted 1. a knowledgeable advocate with me in the delivery room, 2. prenatal and labor education and 3. a calming presence during my labor. Avila not only met my needs, but went above and beyond. She supported me through my gestational diabetes diagnosis and sent me meal prep and grocery list ideas when the shift in my diet felt too overwhelming. She met with my husband and I ahead of the birth to ensure we were properly educated before labor, and answered all of my anxious texts with patience and kindness.
When I ended up choosing an induction, Avila made sure I knew what to expect and I went to the hospital feeling calm and confident. At no point during my labor did I feel nervous or scared because she had properly prepared me ahead of time. I highly recommend Avila's services and will be reaching out to her again for any future pregnancies."
— Hannah S.
"I was supported by Avila through postpartum and she was such a crucial part of my postpartum journey. She was the only member of my birth care team to actually recommend a higher level of mental health care (while acting within her scope). I think while battling with postpartum mental health, it is so hard to self reflect and actually realize how much you're struggling in the moment. So, people like Avila who will care to have those conversations are essential even life-saving. Avila also helped with great tips and tricks for my baby and myself as a mother herself. I am so so grateful for the time my baby and I had with Avila as our doula. My only regret is not having found her sooner as I would have loved to have her support during my birth!"
— Loren E.
"Avila is truly one of the most caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental people I’ve ever met. I connected with Avila toward the end of my second trimester. I came to her with the hope of having a vaginal birth after having a cesarean just 14 months prior. Given my circumstances, I was often told that another cesarean would be the expected outcome. But I knew I wanted to trust my body, and I needed someone who would trust in me too. Avila never judged my decision. Instead, she supported me wholeheartedly and was willing to walk alongside me and give me the chance I was hoping for.
Throughout my third trimester, Avila educated and prepared me for labor and delivery, taught me pelvic floor stretches, and even shared helpful tips on preparing my one-year-old for the transition of bringing a new baby home. Because of her guidance and support, I felt confident, empowered, and prepared—not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
When labor finally came, Avila’s calm presence, encouraging words, and unwavering support helped carry me through some of the most intense moments. Just having her there gave me reassurance and strength. Not once did I doubt myself, my body, or the process. She reminded me of my strength when I needed it most.
Together, we beat the odds of a repeat cesarean, and I was able to have a successful VBAC that I had hoped and worked so hard for. Most importantly, I welcomed a healthy, beautiful baby into the world.
I could honestly say so much more about how grateful I am for Avila and everything she did for me. Having her as my doula was such a meaningful part of my birth experience, and I will forever appreciate the care, encouragement, knowledge, and love she poured into my journey. I wholeheartedly recommend Avila Doula services. "
— Trivina L.