Vivian
Veranda
Violet

I recently gave birth at WHC on November 2 with the support of a great doula, Claudia Booker. I'm putting a few good words in for Claudia because she is so experienced, and she made a long 16-hour day of close contractions seem almost a breeze. She was recommended by my midwife (Whitney Pinger, also amazing).

In fact, my husband was 4 hours out of town when contractions started, and I had been out the previous evening with friends! Claudia gave me so much guidance on breathing, swaying, and other means of reducing the pain. She helped my husband be involved at a level comfortable for him. Things were moving fast, and not everyone believed I would have my girl that night. The baby had meconium, cord wrapped around her neck, and a slight heart murmor at the beginning. Claudia was completely in tune with me, my needs, and my girl's desire to come out!

Look up Claudia at Birthing Hands DC. She will travel far, because she LOVES this work!
http://www.birthinghandsdc.com/

I would definitely go to Claudia again, if we get pregnant a 2nd time. She's our daughter's guardian angel!

I don't know if Claudia Booker will go up to Shady Grove, but I know she goes to the limit for her clients. I just gave birth with her on Sunday, and she was amazing. She has extensive experience, which is why I chose her over other doulas (recently trained, but trying to charge less to be competitive). I had a full 16 hours of intense, short and frequent contractions, and Claudia performed some massages and tricks that were amazing! Go to DC Birthing Hands (www.birthinghandsdc.com) for more info on Claudia.

I have also been told that my baby appears "small," although all my measurements appear to make me look on target for my due date. I'm trying not to stress about it - but everything has gone so perfectly up to now...it's hard not to think about what that might mean... I'm due in less than a month, so I suppose if there is real concern, I will be sent for an ultrasound or something.

For now, I'm just trying to focus on something to be grateful about...delivering a small baby rather than a 10 pound baby!

I've heard these three are very hands-on and supportive:

Dr. Jean-Giles Tchabo - Virginia Hospital Center

Dr. Paula McKenzie of Alexandria Women's Care

Dr. Russell Bridges- Washington DC

Any ideas for 3 months infant? An at-home is ok.

Thanks

Palesa

I'm looking at this place for infant (3 months) as it is down the street from my house. Anyone have experience with them?

They have been around for many years, at 3636 16th Street NW.