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Testimonials:
Wonder what it is like to work with me? Who better to hear it from than past clients
"Jenn stepped into our birth planning at the most delicate moment in our lives, just weeks after we unexpectedly lost our first daughter. With only 7 weeks until our due date for our rainbow baby, Jenn swooped in with an abundance of kindness, compassion, and a much needed sense of ease. She calmed my husband's anxiety about the upcoming birth, and acted as an emotional safe haven for me. Jenn adopted the hypnobirthing plan of our choosing and knew just when to speak up or remain silent to allow us to fully enjoy welcoming our second child into the world. Jenn collaborated with the hospital staff seamlessly, and was by our side from triage to our first feeding. She quickly became an extension of our family and maintained a connection to us far beyond the obligation of our contract. I'm glad now to be able to consider Jenn as a friend."
-L.M.
"I had a really great experience with Jenn. Right from our first meeting we clicked and I knew I wanted her to be my doula. All throughout my pregnancy she was always available to me. Jenn was able to answer all my questions and help me prepare for my (desperately wanted) VBAC as well as breastfeeding, which I was unsuccessful at with my son. From the moment I suspected I was in labor Jenn was in constant contact with me and having her with me in the hospital was wonderful. She was a great support person both to me and my husband. She helped to calm me down and explain things to me when I wasn't sure what was going to happen next. Jenn never left my side and even helped my daughter to latch right in the delivery room! My daughter is almost two months old now and Jenn still keeps in touch with me to ask how the baby is doing and helped me with some breastfeeding issues and questions. I am very grateful to have Jenn as part of my support network and would absolutely recommend her services. I made the decision to hire a doula because I was adamant that my baby be born via VBAC and I am so glad I did."
- Amanda
"Jenn is absolutely amazing and I am so grateful to have had her support throughout my pregnancy, labor and delivery. I am a first-time mom and this was all very new to me. Jenn did an amazing job coaching me through the whole process. Her knowledge and expertise helped me get through a difficult labor, and her postpartum support helped me cope with the exciting - but also overwhelming- experience of a newborn. She is truly a gifted doula!"
- Sabrina
" From the moment of our first meeting with her to discuss expectations and requirements we felt an instant connection and an overall great comfort level. Jenn was also very willing to be available to me via email/phone leading up to the birth. In the last couple of weeks before I went into labor, I had a lot of questions, and Jenn was very supportive, quick to respond with advice or outside resources. She encouraged me to relax and to be patient. On the day that labor actually began, she was on stand-by throughout the day, answering questions and checking on me via text. Jenn was willing to come to us whenever we were ready to head to the hospital. Her encouraging words were very comforting, she knew exactly what I needed when I was in intense pain. She was awesome and we highly recommend her. Thanks Jenn!"
- Carol
" I had such a wonderful experience with Jenn and would highly recommend her to anyone! She has such a calming presence and she made my husband and I feel comfortable from the moment we met her. This was my first pregnancy and I wanted to have an experienced and encouraging coach to help my husband and I along the way. In addition, I wanted to complete childbirth naturally with no medication. Jenn was so helpful in educating us in what to expect in the weeks leading up to the birth, the childbirth process itself, and what to expect postpartum. She was very supportive during my pregnancy and was extremely responsive to answering any questions I had, even late at night. Given that this was our first pregnancy we had very little knowledge of what to expect both physically and emotionally and she was there to help us every step of the way. She was also so supportive after we had the baby. Being first time parents can be hard in the beginning. She gave great advice about dealing with the emotional swings of postpartum and calming a new baby. She continued to check on me in the months after having my son to make sure everything was going well. I am so glad I found her and cannot thank her enough for helping to make my first birth such a memorable and special experience-thank you Jenn!"
- Colleen
" Jenn is worth her weight in gold and we could not imagine our birth without her! From our first meeting, I knew she would be our doula. Her passion for birth, mamas, and babies was evident and she had a gift of being knowledgeable and having wonderful information to share without being overbearing or preachy. Jenn met our thoughts and plans with empathy and understanding, appeased my endless questions and worries, and gave me the tools I needed to prepare- without driving myself or my husband nuts. We hired her pretty early on in our pregnancy so we had a lot of time to get to know each other, feeling so at ease and connected come birth day. She was always up for a random question, updates from OB appointments, or random thoughts from a soon-to-be mom. She truly grew to be a friend.
Come birth day, Jenn was in contact the entire time, sharing both her excitement and knowledge. She had wonderful suggestions for managing things before it was time to go to the hospital. Once we got there, Jenn met us soon after, carrying her wonderful Mary Poppins bag of tricks. She kept pulling out gadgets and gizmos to provide counter pressure, massage, oils, and other things. She deserves a million dollars for her back labor magic, practically lifting me up off the ground by my hips with each contraction. She and my husband worked so well together, and she was able to relieve him for a few minutes to get a bite to eat or use the bathroom. She helped us navigate questions and comments from the doctors and nurses, make decisions, gauge progress, and come up with new positions, breathing, encouragement and strategies to make it through.
26 hours of active labor, no medication, as peaceful and natural as I could have hoped birth would be (but also 100x harder and more rewarding than I could have ever imagined)... Jenn was such an integral part of making that all possible. I truly don't believe our birth would have been what it was without her. "
- Libby
"Jenn is a true professional in her work. She is knowledgeable, comforting, encouraging, and so empowering for each mom and family to pursue the birth that feels best for them, no matter how that looks. She absolutely turned our birth from something that could have been really disappointing and frustrating to an experience that felt empowering and positive. My vision for my daughter's birth was very different than how it played out due to circumstances outside our control, and Jenn was absolutely indispensable in helping my husband and I make decisions on the spot. Instead of feeling like the whole thing was a whirlwind or that we got pressured into any decisions by our birth team, I look back on it and feel like we were truly in the driver's seat and that each choice we made was not only informed, but the best decision for our family. Jenn was tireless in providing hands on assist, encouragement, coaching to me and my husband, and incorporating my Hypnobabies tracks into the birth. Throughout my pregnancy she provided me with such a sense of calm and support whenever she checked in, reached out, or offered encouragement and advice. I could not be more grateful to have had Jenn by our side and I can't imagine it any other way."
- Megan
"My wife and I worked with Jenn for the birth of our first child and she was amazing. Jenn came highly recommended from a good friend of mine, as he and his wife worked with her in the past. Jenn was informative, reassuring, and most importantly calming; especially since I tend to be high stressed. Throughout the pregnancy Jenn regularly checked in on us, answered all our questions, and always made herself available. After my wife went into labor, Jenn met us at the hospital in the very early morning. She was there during the delivery, and supported us both. Additionally when our child was born with some initial health concerns, Jenn helped us get through some very challenging days, offering needed supported, and celebrating with us when everything was in the clear. I couldn't imagine doing the pregnancy without Jenn. I highly recommend her as she is a great resource for both mother and father, and instrumental to a very important moment in our lives."
- Jordan
"I found Jenn through a friend who recommend her services. We began meeting with Jenn early on during our pregnancy and she was available via email, phone and text throughout. There were several times when I had questions after an appointment or began to feel anxious after reading about a certain topic and she was always able to ease my mind. Jenn provides handouts and resources during the first session which I referenced throughout our pregnancy. Our baby girl ended up in the NICU after a traumatic delivery and Jenn supported us that day and for the weeks after with words of encouragement. Overall, it was important for us to have a doula for the birth of our first child and we are happy that person was Jenn."
- Jamie
"I have nothing but good things to say about Jenn! We met with a few doulas before deciding on one, and immediately knew upon meeting Jenn that she would be the one for us. She was supportive of the entire process and either method of delivery. (I was dead set on having a natural, least medicated as possible, birth, but had a huge wrench thrown in that plan when my son was breach and I had a scheduled C section. Was forced to take a complete 180 on our birth "guidelines", and Jenn took it in stride and helped me get through my worst fears of the hospital, spinal anesthesia, IVs, and all.) I would wholeheartedly recommend her!"
- Samantha I
"I absolutely cannot recommend Jenn more highly. She is so knowledgeable, encouraging, and lovely to work with. My delivery was incredibly exhausting--I labored for 48 hours and there was a lot that did not go according to plan. She knew exactly what to do and how to help at every step, and was available to answer questions and continue encouraging me and my husband long after our son was born. She was, without a doubt, the best money we spent during my pregnancy. I don't know how I would have gotten through labor and delivery without her! "
- Kate
"I had a wonderful experience with Jenn. She was understanding and helped us prepare for the birth. I followed all of her recommendations and I really believe that it helped me with the birth progressing quickly. Jenn came to our home before and after the birth which was also very helpful. During the birth she was there from the moment I wanted her there and she really helped me and my partner stay calm and helped me manage the pain. I tell every pregnant mom that having a doula, especially as a first time mom, was life changing. Thank you for being a part of this moment with our family."
- Jennifer
"As soon as I became pregnant with my second child, I started interviewing doulas as I knew my biggest regret with my first was not hiring one. I interviewed many and Jenn Fantasia was the one that I instantly felt a connection with and it continued through pregnancy, birth, and over a year later (currently). Not only did I appreciate her as a woman and doula, whom I could feel vulnerable with, but I also highly appreciated her professionalism.
I had a very empowering VBAC and I know a part of that was because I had support from this amazing woman. Her continued support, being a soundboard to help me make my own decisions and never swaying me towards one way or the other, but just helping me know all my options.
I have attended Jenn's mom groups postpartum and have truly seen a side of her that is to be admired. When she says she supports the parents decisions to birth any way they want, she truly means it. I have watched her fully support mothers making complete opposite decisions and she genuinely is there just to support the families. It is beautiful to see.
You are truly in good hands with Jenn and I highly recommend hiring her.
p.s. even my OB highly recommends Jenn!"
- Samantha
"Jenn was phenomenal. We interviewed several doulas while I was pregnant and I felt the most comfortable with her and her class offerings. We did the full package and took several childbirth and newborn classes with her. She was warm and friendly and answered all of our questions throughout the process. She was easy to get in touch with and I was able to text her whenever I had a question. It made me feel so much better especially at the end of my pregnancy when I was more anxious. During my labor, she was attentive and respectful. She helped both of us feel more comfortable and was a very calming presence throughout my labor. We had a hospital birth and she fit seamlessly in with the doctor and nurses. She continued to stay in touch after I had my daughter and has been a great resource for me. She is so kind and caring and always available. I loved attending her small groups over the summer with my newborn. I wouldn't hesitate to work with her again."
- Nora
"I clicked with Jenn right away when we meet. She made me feel at ease with what I wanted and with what I felt I needed during birth. Jenn is very kind, calming, and knowledgeable. Of course nothing went to plan during my labor. Jenn rolled with all the punches and kept me and my husband calm and comfortable. Poor Jenn had a long night in a hospital chair but I was so happy she was there for support. I was unable to hold my baby after birth due to medication reactions. Jenn went with my husband and baby to the nursery which allowed me relax and recover a bit. I was so happy to know my husband had Jenn to lean on in my absence.
I also used Jenn for Postpartum Support which I am SO happy I did. It was an emotional and physical roller coaster after my birth and to know Jenn was coming over soon to help took a huge wait off my shoulders. Jenn walked me through every question I had and helped with any issues that came up. She also sent me to take a nap when I needed one (and needed someone to tell me to!).
Jenn is a wonderful, talented doula and the best person. I cannot recommend her enough if you are looking for support before, during, and after having a baby. Thank you for everything Jenn!!!!"
- Dianna
"From the moment I first contacted Jenn, she was professional, organized, friendly, caring and helpful. That continued through my daughters birth, the postpartum period and as recent as our conversations this month. Because I am a single mom, I was looking for someone to support me and my baby through the end of pregnancy, labor and beyond. Jenn was always available to me between our prenatal visits. I would text her the results of tests and ask her questions on a weekly, sometimes daily, basis. She explained things to me in a way that made sense, and then let me make my own decisions. I chose Jenn because I didn't want to be pushed into having a natural birth or doing hypnosis. I figured I would probably choose to have drugs during my labor, and didn't want to feel bad about it. Jenn was fully supportive of all my choices and never pushed for anything. She is very knowledgeable and will give you all the facts to make your decisions - but they are your decisions. And her support never wavered or changed based on the decisions I made. I never felt bad or guilty for anything. During my extremely long induced labor, Jenn stayed next to me the whole 36 hours helping me understand what was happening, helping me labor, being a hand to hold, or someone to get ice or juice. She held my hands while I got the epidural, and she was holding my legs when I was pushing. She took the very first pictures of my daughter and I cherish those to this day. It can be a scary, confusing, hectic time and Jenn was my calm in the storm. She continued to help me with breastfeeding when I got home from the hospital. I can not recommend her highly enough. I am still connected to her and her family to this day and my daughter and I are so lucky to have them all as a supportive extended family. I am so happy that I chose her as my doula."
- Erica
"Having Jenn with me through my second pregnancy and beyond has been so beneficial to my transition as a mother of two. I had a very quick labor, but as we arrived at the hospital at the same time she was there just in time for me to hit my transitional phase and I am so thankful for that. She was calm, nurturing at just the right moments and helped me feel comfortable when I didn't feel like anything was bringing me comfort. What has been so incredible for me is the support I have received from her postpartum. I am so thankful I was able to reach out to her with my concerns, emotions, anything , even still 6 months later. Having that quality in a doula is something I find invaluable. I felt that she was able to voice my needs at the hospital when I was not, and she was able to gently guide me from the negative voices telling me I couldn't do it , it was just what i needed, and that is because she takes so much time to go over everything you are hoping to have for your birth, without ever feeling like you are being coached through your experience, unless that's what you want, I'm positive she could do that for you! She's upfront, but nurturing in all the right moments. I will forever be grateful for having her in my life!"
- Danni
" When my partner and I met Jenn, we all got along pretty quickly and easily. She saw that we like to joke around and was right there with us. She provided so much information and so much support leading up to the birth, all of which was very valuable. But where she really shines is in the delivery room! Jenn came in at just the right time, with just the right energy. She immediately began employing massage techniques that relaxed me so much. She asked a few questions but immediately read that I didn't want to talk and was so patient and attentive. Between her, myself and my partner we developed a pattern to ride the wave of each contraction. Before I knew it, baby boy was out and Jenn was there with us smiling ear to ear! She also took lots of amazing pictures!! She stayed in touch after the birth and visited us after we got home. My son is almost 3 months old and I still consider Jenn to be one of my primary sources of support in all things mama related. She's a wonderful person and a beautiful soul! My partner put it best when he said about the birth - "Katie may have been the rock star but Jenn was the roadie AND the manager!"
- Katie F
"From the first time I met Jenn at an event, I had a feeling she was going to be the doula I hired. During the interview process and throughout our whole journey, I appreciated her professional manner and respect. From day one, I felt on the same level with Jenn and she treated me as an equal, which was another big factor in feeling comfortable with her and choosing to hire her. To me, my doula needed to be my equal, someone I could be vulnerable with, since I knew I was preparing for a VBAC and had a lot of mental preparation ahead of me.
Being able to text Jenn and get her experienced advice at any time was invaluable. I never once felt judged, uncomfortable, or unsure around Jenn. During my labor, having access to her the entire time was exactly what I needed. Having her at my birth felt very comforting. I hardly looked at her or talked to her, but I never once felt that I needed to do anything. She knew where my head was and she was the presence that I needed.
Postpartum I still am texting Jenn with questions and updates because I feel like she is a part of us all now. I have gone to her mom support groups and I get to see how she is with all other moms, in whatever variation we come in. I can say without a doubt she supports families in however they decide to birth and parent, something that I hope to be able to emulate in my life towards everyone. "
- Samantha
"3 words that describe Jenn: Kind, calm, and experienced.
My husband and I knew we didn't want family in the hospital but that we needed someone there who had more experience than we did. It was also important to me that there be someone there to support my husband and provide him with breaks if necessary.You seemed to know I was about to start another contraction just a millisecond after I started to feel it. My husband ended up being a great coach through contractions, but he didn't catch on to the start of a contraction for a second or two - during those moments (which felt so long) you knew what I was going through, and you'd just calmly make eye contact and silently get me started on my breathing until my husband caught up. It kept me from tensing up with the start of each contraction and your attention was so appreciated!
I wanted a birth with as little medical intervention as possible - I hoped to not be induced, receive no pain medication, etc. You provided a lot of helpful resources and while I was so nervous, I felt prepared. Life had other plans for me, though, and I had to receive a great deal of medical intervention. You were by my side through it all and reassured me I could do it all. I felt reassured that I was making the best choices for myself and my baby and that I was doing what was necessary.
I also had thought that you'd be done with us as clients after the postpartum visit. But you surprised me by texting to check in with us periodically, to see how everything is going. You've continued to provide such great support and advice - and I can't tell you how wonderful this has been!"
- Alida
"I was so blessed to have had Jenn Fantasia as my doula throughout my pregnancy. Jenn was there for me from the moment I got to the hospital and was my rock throughout my entire delivery. On January 23rd 2015, I gave birth to my second miracle, Logan Benjamin. Jenn gave me the physical and mental support that I needed throughout my delivery, she even made me laugh! I was not able to have my sons father there, due to an accident he had several months prior. The love and support I had from Jenn, made me feel so comfortable. It truly was an experience I will never forget and am so fortunate to have had Jenn by my side. I will be forever grateful for her! Thank you Jenn from the bottom of my heart in sharing this experience with me!"
- Jessica
"Jenn was very knowledgeable and helpful in navigating me through the last couple of months of my pregnancy and birth. I was very nervous about the process with this being my first and she was able to ease my mind with her experience and resources. Jenn was readily available to answer any and all questions I had and was very supportive of me and my husband. Jenn checked in with me frequently and came to the hospital when I felt I needed her support. Unfortunately, I ended up having to have a c-section but Jenn was very encouraging and helpful throughout. I would highly recommend Jenn Fantasia for a doula and would love to use her again in future pregnancies."
- Amanda
"Jenn was excellent to have in the delivery room. She made the experience much more relaxing than it had been with our first child and she did a wonderful job of looking out for my wife''s best interest. I wasn't sure about having someone else in the delivery room with us at first, but having Jenn there to help and provide support made for a terrific experience. "
- Corey
"I was thrilled that we found Jenn to be our doula for the birth of our daughter. Right from the start, Jenn was welcoming, warm, and understanding of any concerns/questions we had. I always felt that Jenn was on OUR side and never felt judged by any of our decisions. Jenn met with my husband and I to help us prepare for the birth on 2 separate occasions. Each time we met, I felt more confident and sure of myself to handle the birth (because I knew she'd be there with my husband rooting me on!). When the day came, Jenn was so comforting to have in the delivery room. Not only was she a strong support for me, but my husband as well. She knew just what to say and do to make the process one I will treasure forever.
Upon leaving the hospital, Jenn made sure to check in with us and see how everything was going. She even came by our house the next morning to help out with breastfeeding! We couldn't have done it without her-- Thank you, Jenn!"
- Kathryn
"My experience with Jenn was wonderful! We decided to seek out the care of a doula when we were down to the wire, (I think about 32 weeks?!) when we realized that a traditional birth class was just not in the cards for us. But goodness, am I glad that everything happened the way it did because I couldn't imagine our journey without Jenn!
Jenn is knowledgeable, caring and down to Earth. Being an RN myself, I had a lot of basic knowledge about pregnancy and birth but Jenn is very skilled and brought the education to meet me where I was. Jenn promptly answered my calls and questions, provided regular check ins up to birth and postpartum and much needed breastfeeding support (we are still going strong after a year!). My labor went very quickly and I was so happy to see her walk through my labor room door right when my partner and I needed support. She was a great support to my husband too. I have recommended Jenn to family and friends, Jenn rocks!!"
- Ally
"Jenn has been absolutely wonderful for our family. At first, we were reluctant to hire a doula, but from the first meeting Jenn gave us useful advice and was so comfortable to be around that we knew we wouldn't mind having her in the hospital room. Jenn put a ton of effort into making sure we felt prepared to give birth, providing us with her curated information and materials. When we found out we’d be induced but didn’t know exactly when, Jenn arranged her family activities for a whole week so that she would be nearby in case she got an urgent call from me. This was absolutely above and beyond.I am very proud to say we delivered without pain medication in only 4 hours, and I truly believe this wouldn’t have been possible without our preparation with Jenn.
Since our son was born, Jenn has visited and has been supportive for every single question about breastfeeding, sleep tips, and overall wellness - and it’s been 4 months! She is basically a saint and I would hire her again immediately if we have a second child."
- Niki
"My husband and I are first-time parents with no family members in this area. We interviewed a few doulas and finally chose Jenn. You know what? Looking back, this may be the most critical and correct decision we made and we are soooo grateful for having Jenn with us. She is very kind and caring, and not assertive or condescending at all when discussing with us about what options are out there for us. She was also very accessible throughout the whole time and provided a lot of useful information for us, which turned out to be a huge help. If we decide to have another baby, I will definitely hire Jenn again."
- Xiaochen
"Jenn was a wonderful doula as I was in labor, within the delivery room and even postpartum. Unlike other doulas whose services stop once the baby was born, Jenn continued to contact me to ensure that breastfeeding was going well, I was taking care of myself... even checking in to make sure that I showered! She helped to keep me calm during my contractions and was a great advocate for everything that I wanted for my birth. I would recommend Jenn to any mother looking to have a natural birth. Thanks, Jenn!"
- Jules
"I'm so thankful to have had Jenn at my side as I went into labor. Her tools and expertise helped to keep me as calm and comfortable as possible. I honestly cannot imagine how I would have handled the long, hard process of giving birth without the help of a doula. She also provided important support to my partner. Many thanks to Jenn!"
- Wendy
"I can't thank you enough for your support through this birth experience. Your presence gave me both peace and encouragement. Most of all it made an experience I was so worried about, into something beautiful and amazing. Thank you for that- you are a fabulous doula!"
- Aisha
"Thank you for being by our side every step of the way. You truly have a gift and we were so fortunate to have you in our lives. We will be forever grateful for all of your support."
- Renee
"I can't say enough positive compliments about Jenn. She was actually our "back up doula" as our original doula was out of town the day I went into labor. Jenn jumped right in and made me feel so comfortable. She helped keep myself and my husband calm through the labor and the unfortunate event of having a terrible L&D nurse. The nurse was negative and unhelpful to put it lightly. Jenn helped to keep my birth experience positive and kept me focused on meeting my son, instead of focusing on being upset at the nurse.
She also continues to keep in touch with me and offers wonderful, non-judgmental advice every time I ask. The home visit after the birth was great as well- I was extremely sleep deprived and needed reassurance at that time. Jenn told me I was doing a great job and answered all of my questions. I would recommend Jenn to anyone looking for a doula and I will most certainly be calling her again for my second pregnancy!"
- Christina
"My husband and I had hoped hoped for a natural birth and we knew that if we wanted to try for this, we would need help, so we searched for a doula. We interviewed several candidates, but I felt a connection to Jenn immediately. I liked that she grew up and lives in my hometown. When I met her, she seemed relaxed, non-judgmental, and organized. Most importantly, she made me feel calm.
Jenn met with us leading up to the birth, providing important and relevant information. She came to the hospital, not once, but twice, and she supported me in my very long attempt at a natural delivery. I think I hold the record for the longest labor that Jenn has even been a part of -60+ hours! Although the birth was not as I had planned, we were grateful to have Jenn with us. Her presence was important- it allowed my husband an opportunity to leave the room if needed, knowing that I had someone with me. Jenn’s techniques for relaxation and pain relief were incredibly helpful and without her I wouldn’t have been able to labor as long as I did without pain medication.
I did not end up having the kind of birth that I envisioned, but I did feel supported during the process. My husband and I were able to make educated decisions about the processes and procedures that took place in the labor and delivery room- for me this was very important. I am a Nurse Practitioner and I had certain expectations and wishes. My husband, has no medical background, but because we had discussed everything in detail, and because he had Jenn to help guide him, he was able to help me make important decisions about the labor, delivery and aftercare of our daughter when I was unable or unaware.
After the birth, Jenn answered my questions about breastfeeding, sleeping and all things newborn. She checked up on me for weeks after the birth, just to make sure that I was coping well as a new mother. I would highly recommend Jenn to those seeking a doula. "
- Michaela
"I don’t know how many people find themselves seeking out a doula for the first time in their second pregnancy, but that’s where we were. My first pregnancy and birth were complicated and left me scared, and for a while unsure whether I wanted to repeat the experience at all. When we decided we wanted to have another child, I knew I was going to hire a doula this time. We had delivered prematurely last time and I had never experienced labor and did not know what to expect. Being pregnant there is a lot going on that is out of your control, it helps me to prepare for what I can.Jenn is exactly what I needed. She is there with all the information you could want about a number of topics (and all compiled in an organized binder!), she is just a text or email away if you have any questions, and she does not judge you. She says on her website that she supports you and your way 100% and she does! I felt like I was safe with her, and when you are at your most vulnerable that is EVERYTHING. With Jenn there for physical and emotional support I was able to labor the way I had wanted to, and even though it ended in another emergency cesarean, I view this experience in a much more positive light. Knowing I could depend on extra support from Jenn when the time came gave me peace of mind, reduced my anxiety, and improved my pregnancy experience. Thank you, Jenn!"
- Lauren
"I thought I was prepared going into childbirth — my spouse and I had taken an eight-week birthing class, in addition to four or five classes at our hospital on everything from birth to post-partum care to breastfeeding. And yet, when my labor actually started, nothing matched what I had been taught: there was no pattern to my contractions, no space between some of them, and I found myself wholly unprepared mentally and emotionally for the kind of pain I was in. I was just scared. Having Jenn at my side felt like a literal lifesaver. I honestly don't know how I would have gotten through it all without her. She kept me as calm as possible, helped me focus on getting through each contraction one at a time, reminded me to try different positions to see what might help me to cope, and reminded me that I could do this (and that I was doing it with each breath). She knew exactly what I needed to hear and how to support me while allowing the midwife and other staff to do their jobs as well.
We also hired Jenn as a postpartum doula, and honestly that was the best decision I ever made about my entire pregnancy. Through every up and down — the sleep deprivation, the first-timer panic and self-doubt at every little cough or symptom the baby had, the learning curve of breastfeeding — she was right there with information, encouragement, resources, and support. Even though a lot of the information I needed was already in the well-organized binder she had given us prenatally, she never made me feel bad for not looking it up, she just brought copies of what I needed when I needed it and went over everything with me until I felt calm and well equipped. Again, she was a total lifesaver.
Becoming a parent for the first time is HARD. Jenn helped us get through it with evidence-based information and a lot of experience, but also with a huge amount of compassion, patience, and humor. I would work with her again in a heartbeat."
- Julie
"I can’t say enough great things about Jenn. Hiring her as my doula was the best decision I made and she truly helped me achieve the labor I hoped for. I wanted an all natural VBAC and Jenn was by my side the whole time, keeping me focused and using different positions and pain management techniques. From the moment I texted her she was on her way to the hospital. She answered my emails and texts right away and constantly checked in with me. She was a great resource and was a great listener. She came out to see us the day after we got home and a month later we still talk! I highly recommend Jenn, she’s amazing !"
- Rita
Rhode Island doula- what it is like to work with me
"We had an amazing experience with Jenn. We decided to work with a doula because we knew early on that my wife wasn’t medically able to get an epidural and we were both anxious about the possibility of a general-anesthesia c-section. Jenn clicked with us right away and made it a priority to figure out what worked best for our situation and personalities. She was our top resource throughout, helping us prepare beforehand, helping us settle in for an overnight stay when my wife was induced, and essential for the main event (you try remembering what you learned in a class when you’re actually in the delivery room!). Jenn supported my wife through a vaginal delivery without pain medication and was great in the moment with constant support that never once felt intrusive. The support she gave in the following months was just as important to us -- having Jenn available via text for any of our many questions brought a lot of comfort to us as first time parents. In addition to her standard post-partum home visit, she also visited us for two lactation consultations: one early on and another to help my wife with weaning. Every step of the way Jenn was solid, comforting, and encouraging and I can’t imagine what we would have done without her energy and guidance!"
- Zack
"I can't stress enough how competent and what a good person Jenn is. She was there for us because she cares about people, and she just made everything better. This was our first pregnancy so when Jenn showed up to our introductory meeting organized and prepared with everything spelled out, she made us feel really good about hiring her. I never regretted it! I had a ton of questions the whole time but she responded quickly to everyone and saved me and my family from doing things the hard way.
During labor, Jenn helped us adjust to a complication that led to a non-emergency but unplanned cesarean section. It was traumatic but we got through to a healthy mom and baby. What a relief we got through and are feeling okay!
Definitely call Jenn Fantasia if you need your doula to be committed and awesome. She was there for me from start to finish during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum and with no regrets. We love Jenn!"
-Sara
"If I ever have another child, I will most certainly be hiring Jenn again! Prior to the birth of our daughter, Jenn provided us with a great deal of information about labor and delivery options so that we could decide what we wanted and be prepared. (Or at least as prepared as you can be as a first time mom!) My goal was to give birth un-medicated in a hospital setting and Jenn helped us to achieve that. Before we called her to join us at the hospital, labor was difficult and I was wondering if I could possibly manage a natural delivery. When we called Jenn to join us, she arrived quickly. What a huge difference she made! She knew how to apply counter-pressure (which was amazingly helpful) and suggested different movements to make labor progress faster and more comfortably. Throughout labor and delivery, Jenn was very calm and supportive. After the birth, she kept in touch and checked in occasionally to see how we were doing. The only regret I have about the whole experience is that we didn't call her sooner when I was in labor!"
- Bethany
"Jenn was a great source of comfort and knowledge during the preparation for my first pregnancy. My husband and I live away from family, and his job was taking him on the road quite a bit. With Jenn's help, we were able to obtain extensive information on the birthing process and become familiar with our options and various scenarios for labor. It is obvious she puts alot of work into her materials, and I found her vision exercises and hands-on assist to be the most helpful components for me personally. She always stays in touch and does a great job of making you feel supported and connected to her. Jenn truly cares and will do everything within her power to give you a positive experience. "
- Jennifer
"With my high risk pregnancy Jenn was super helpful. She was always available to answer any questions I had in a timely manner and had some of the best advice I could have received. I am so glad we had her help, especially when at the end of this whole experience we ran into some complications and needed her a little sooner than we thought! She was there for me when I was hospitalized and needed the extra support, and she was ready to be there when I had to be induced 4 weeks early. I couldn't have asked for anyone better, and I am so glad that she was able to be there when my little girl was born. If you need extra support or have any questions, she is definitely who I would recommend. Thank you Jenn, for everything you did for us!"
- Jess
"We first looked for a doula because we wanted someone to be with us that had been through labor and delivery before and could help us feel prepared and supported. Immediately after meeting Jenn, we knew we found that person. Throughout pregnancy, labor and delivery there were many times where Jenn's support and guidance was the key to making us feel informed, confident and comfortable. She was neutral and offered information without pushing us in a direction. We really appreciate the way she made us feel like the decisions we made were our own.."
- Sarah
"I used Jenn as my doula for the birth of my son in April 2018 and was so happy
I did. As a first time Mom I felt overwhelmed by the information out there and completely unprepared for child birth. My original intention was just to have some extra support since my husband was new to this and my Mom was not local, but I found Jenn was helpful to me in the entire process of becoming a Mom and not just the birth itself. Jenn’s warm and calm personality had me instantly at ease. Jenn helped me with all aspects of my pregnancy and then helped me feel empowered for the birth. I love Jenn’s philosophy around planning because she helps you understand how to feel confident in your choices throughout the stages even if everything doesn’t go perfectly. My personal birth experience was fast and furious and Jenn was able to help me manage the pain. After he was born, Jenn was incredibly helpful in getting me started with breastfeeding and we’re now on month 7 of breastfeeding which I really believe is thanks to Jenn’s knowledge and support. I can’t recommend Jenn enough- she is a wonderful person and so passionate and knowledgeable. Everyone woman planning to have a baby should have a doula!"
- Emma
"My wife decided to use a doula which I had never really heard of doing, but Jenn was great. She helped me get more involved beyond just a birthing class and it was nice to have someone else in the delivery room. When questions came up it was amazing to have someone to turn to instead of Google. We highly recommend Jenn!"
- Kevin
"Jenn helped us prepare for our first baby. I was overwhelmed by the unknown and needed some reassurance. She was calm, confident and very informed about pregnancy and birth. I am so glad that we didn't just do the obligatory hospital education class-- Jenn provided us with information and techniques that helped me to feel prepared and confident that I could do it! All of the prep and planning paid off because the birth itself went pretty quickly. I would highly recommend her as a doula for the piece of mind. Thank you Jenn!"
- Stephanie
"I first met Jenn on day 3 of labor as my hired doula asked for her to step in. As you could imagine, this was an exhausting experience for me and I was about to go through it with a stranger! Instantly upon meeting me though, Jenn was so nurturing and calming. She started talking to me and rubbing my arm. I was comfortable with her both emotionally and physically in my last stretch of labor which made all the difference. She made the experience so wonderful and her physical support is no doubt what helped me fulfill my goal of delivering without pain medication - she knows what she’s doing with those hands! When I got pregnant a 2nd time I think I texted her the night I found out to reserve her for birth haha. She again was so wonderful not only during the labor/delivery process, but before and after as well. You won’t regret having doula support during labor and Jenn is your girl! "
- Katie B
Doula in Rhode ISalnd