Suzanne Deselms

Suzanne was my doula for the home birth of my youngest. She immediately impressed me with how well she knew her craft. She asked great questions, set up an amazing birth plan (that turned out to be just what I needed), helped me figure out how to rent and use a birthing tub, and made sure to stay in touch as I prepared for my home birth. I learned so much from her. My labor was a little complicated. My son's head got stuck on my pubic bone at some point during my pregnancy, and it resulted in almost 30 days of Braxton-Hicks before true labor began. During that time of uncertainty and frustration, Suzanne's grounded, informed presence was enormously helpful. She helped me figure out how to support myself, how to make myself comfortable, and how to proceed with clarity and confidence. When true labor finally started, Suzanne was so good at keeping me comfortable. All I had to do was answer her as she asked if I wanted to move position, have a snack, change the music, etc. Whatever I needed, she was there. When my son's head got stuck again, she and my midwife helped spin him around so that my labor could progress. She helped me in and out of the birthing pool, she made sure I felt safe, and she knew EXACTLY what to say to bring me back to earth during transition. Her insight and compassion made a difficult experience magical, and she took great pictures of the moment I got to meet my son! I am really grateful for her and the work she did. She kept me feeling safe, grounded, and supported, and that goodness has stayed with me. My son's birth is a happy memory and a source of strength that I draw on when I need it. I got through some really overwhelming sensations and out the other side to meet one of the most amazing people I've ever met, and Suzanne was a big part of making that experience a good one. I highly recommend her.