If you are considering a doula, you should definitely hire Susie! I knew as soon as I met her that I wanted her to be my doula. She is so understanding and kind, and also very knowledgeable and passionate about birth. She went above and beyond to cheek in with me throughout my pregnancy, and I felt so loved and supported. I felt a sense of peace, knowing that I had a doula. It made a huge difference during labor. She was a calming, kind presence to help me through a very difficult labor. She also helped me process my birth story afterwards, and continued to check on me throughout my postpartum recovery. I'm so thankful for her and would highly recommend her! Thank you, Susie, for being amazing!
Testimonial from Luna L
Highly recommend Susie! Having a doula was in my mind at first but than I just let it go, but my 34 weeks my husband approached me and asked if I would like to hire one and if that wouldn’t be right for us... I was happy but had such a short time to find one. Luckily the first one I reached out to was Susie and I loved her since the first interview. She worked as a team with Lisa and split in night and day shift to cover my labor. She was there during the night and when my contractions got really bad. She helped me get through it reassuring I could do it and also respecting and guiding me when I decided to take the epidural. Also, I can’t say enough about how they both helped me while pregnant and after birth. Always, always available via msg, getting back to me quickly, saying positive things, giving recommendations and helping me with questions I wouldn’t bother calling the doctor for but that really helped me get calm or exited about! If you think about having a doula, just schedule an interview with her and you will be sure that’s the right decision!
Testimonial From Morgan
As a first time mom planning a homebirth, our midwife recommended we hire a doula. We loved working with Susie! She was always easy to get in touch with and answered all of our questions (and as a first time mom there were a lot). She was very supportive and encouraging during the birth and stayed after to help us settle in as a new family of three.
Testimonial from Kate A
I had a c-section with my first child and was determined to have a natural, unmedicated VBAC with my 2nd child. From the first meeting with Susie I felt an instant connection and knew she was the right person for us to help achieve our goals. I wanted someone who would be advocate for my husband and I who could clearly help us weigh any potential risks and to help me stay focused and relaxed. Susie did all of that and then some. She helped me move around and get into a comfortable position to deliver our daughter, kept me cool and calm, and also stood up for me when the nurses pushed to have me deliver in a position that I didn't want to be in. Her follow up after birth was excellent as well and she was able to give me great advice when I needed help. Hire Susie- she's your girl!
Testimonial from Paul K I'll admit that I new relatively nothing about doulas before my wife became pregnant. The word reminded me of something I'd see on a Middle Eastern menu next to hummus and baba ghanoush. But when my wife explained to me that a doula would help coach her to the birth she wanted to have, that the doula would advocate for us in the chaotic delivery room, and that the doula would help her post-pregnancy, I knew that it was the right choice to hire one. So which one? Well, Susie is warm, welcoming, talented, capable, cool under pressure, confident, and incredibly informative. She is patient and proactive. And she's supportive in a way that isn't pushy. Susie always made me feel part of the process and answered all my questions. So, in short, hire Susie!
Testimonial from Meghan K
I wanted to give birth to my first child without an epidural, and I knew a doula could be a big help in that regard. My husband and I felt really comfortable with Susie from the get-go, and being comfortable and relaxed is half the battle in a birth without drugs. Susie was an amazing resource. I was able to text her in the weeks leading up to the birth with all my questions and concerns (ex: how do I handle this excruciating wait?!?) and she always had good insight. In addition to her doula experience, she has five kids of her own, so it was comforting to know she'd been there! Once I was in labor, Susie coached me through laboring at home for as long as possible via text message. By the time I saw my doctor, I was 5 cm dilated, 100% effaced, and ready to go to the hospital, and about 2.5 hours after entering the hospital, my son was born. Susie was a tremendous help during my time in the hospital. Despite the fact that I was laboring over a birthing ball on the bed in just a sports bra (those hospital gowns are tricky to figure out in active labor!), Susie didn't hesitate to stand behind me to put counterpressure on my hips as I worked through some tough contractions. She helped me remember to breathe and to take it one contraction at a time when I doubted my ability to go on without drugs. She encouraged me as I pushed, and she got some great photos of my husband and me right after we met our son. She stuck around after to help with whatever we needed to feel more comfortable as brand-new parents. Her postpartum visit was super helpful too: She helped me learn some baby bathing tactics, and it was good to associate with another adult after my husband went back to work! And, I've been in touch with her via text and email in the two months since with even more questions. Becoming a parent for the first time is scary. Susie has helped make it less scary. I'd 100% recommend her, whether you're a first-timer or not!
Testimonial from Heather I
I decided to hire a doula when I read that doulas are also support people for dads/partners - I realized my husband may need a cup of coffee during a long labor. I found Susie's card at my OB's office and instantly felt connected - not only was she someone I could trust and feel comfortable with, I saw her as someone I could be friends with. We hired Susie several months before I was due. I communicated with her via and text with questions and concerns. Even though she has 5 (adorable!) kids, she always got back to me quickly. I felt very much at ease.
As we "finalized" my birth "plan," Susie made sure to go over everything I wanted and didn't want during labor and delivery. I didn't want any medical intervention but knew it was a possibility & ultimately I'd listen to my doctors. Turns out, we had lots of cards not in our favor so it was not the labor I had hoped for. But Susie did not disappoint. At all.
We called Susie to the hospital when I went on pitocin. She worked with my husband to employ comfort techniques and incredible emotional support. Any time I started freaking out she reminded me to breathe and walked me through the contractions. When I finally couldn't take it anymore and asked for an epidural (something I did not want), she helped me remain calm and confirmed that it was something I really did want. (I did) I felt so supported with Susie (and so did my husband, who was amazing, but we'd never done this before!). She helped me through a painful "labor down" while we waited for my OB to deliver my son. And then she hung around while we got settled after the birth. I was sad to see her go!
Susie's postpartum visit was a life-saver. She helped me set up a breast pump and walked me through the basics of pumping and preparing bottles. If you're looking for a doula, look no further than Susie. I am so happy and fortunate to have found her and truly could not have done this without her.
Testimonial from Samantha W If you are in the market for a doula, Susie is your gal! After having a not so great first birth experience I decided on hiring a doula to help me achieve the experience I longed for. Susie gave me reassurance that women can have natural births. She gave me the tools and the confidence to know I can do it too. She has such a calming presence. I wouldn't change my son's birth for anything and I have Susie to thank.
Testimonial from Melissa M My first daughter was born via emergency c-section and the process felt so rushed and frantic (guess that's why it was an emergency). I knew for my second baby I'd want to have a different experience (if possible) so late into my third trimester, I found Susie Conrad. She's the best! As a doula, she's a wealth of knowledge (ranging from superfluous to critical - like which products to buy to help perineal tears and alternate birthing positions). Susie was a calming force as I labored at home with such sage advice that had me checking into the hospital at 9.5cm dilated. Her presence, advice, and sweet words during labor helped to calm both my husband and me - and with her support I ended up having the most amazing VBAC experience. Susie helped me trust my baby, trust my body, and trust the labor process - exactly what I needed! I'd recommend Susie in a heartbeat (and I have time and time again)!
TESTIMONIAL FROM LAUREN S SUSIE WAS PARAMOUNT DURING MY MARATHON VBAC. MY HUSBAND AND I WERE BOTH SO THANKFUL SHE WAS THERE TO SUPPORT ME DURING LABOR AND DELIVERY. I WOULD RECOMMEND HER TO MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY. SHOULD WE HAVE ANOTHER, I WOULD WANT HER BY MY SIDE AGAIN.
Testimonial from Nicole, midwife
Susie is one of the kindest, most compassionate doulas I've had the pleasure of working with. She has a calm and loving nature, as well as a keen intuition being expertly tuned in with the birthing mothers' needs. It's important that your birth attendant knows how to be helpful and assertive without being "noticed" too much, and Susie is able to bring that perfect balance. I think she is a very special asset to our local birth community, and I often recommend her to all of my LHV families looking for birth support both in and out of the hospital!
Testimonial from Charlotte
Where to begin singing Susie's praises... She is a phenomenally talented doula who brings together compassion, a great sense of humor, and a deeply informed, evidence-based approach to labor, delivery, and postpartum. I felt totally supported by Susie leading up to, during, and following my two births. With her support I had two unmedicated births, one of them induced, and Susie's support is what made those experiences possible--I can't imagine either of my births without her presence and support. I am grateful that Susie will forever be part of my birth stories and memories.
Testimonial from Morgan
After having Susie as my doula for my first birth I knew I would want her there when we had another baby. Just like the first time she was great! It was wonderful having her there and she was so helpful yet again. If/when we have a third I'll be using her again
Testimonial FRom ERin F
If I decide to have another baby, I would hire Susie again in a heart beat! I was really anxious during my pregnancy, not knowing what to expect, and Susie was such a calming force before, during, and after Iris' birth.
Testimonial from Molly
With my first birth, I considered myself definitely "not a doula person." When I was pregnant with my second child, my midwife requested that I have a doula present at the birth, and I procrastinated soooo badly on getting one, because I'm "not a doula person." When I was 34 weeks I finally asked Susie if she'd be my doula. Instead of scolding me for not getting my act together sooner, she immediately said yes, and found a back-up, and scheduled me in, and was totally accommodating. Susie turned me from "not a doula person" into a "how did I ever birth without a doula?!" person. She was such a gentle and cheerful presence during my labor, and her hands-on pain management techniques were incredibly helpful! I was so grateful to have her present at the birth of my daughter. I now recommend her to everyone I know who is on the fence about whether they'd like to have a doula present at their birth. Yes, have a doula -- have Susie!
Testimonial From Sarah P
I am so glad I found Susie. She is, without a doubt, the main reason I was able to achieve a successful VBAC. I honestly was not in the market for a doula when I stumbled upon Susie but I am so thankful I did. She helped guide me to VBAC friendly providers, helped to build up my confidence, answer any questions or concerns, and was an unbelievably calm presence during my birth. My husband and I are so grateful for Susie and our amazing birth experience. I wouldn't change a thing!
Testimonial from Jayne K I highly, highly suggest hiring Susie! Being able to contact her, throughout my pregnancy, (with questions you probably shouldn't call the doctor for) gave me complete peace of mind. She is a great listener and has a confident sweetness about her. She is easy to be around, but was amazing when she had to take charge while I was having intense contractions. She listened to what I wanted and when I was having complications, was able to tell me what the doctor was probably coming back in to say or do. That helped me make educated decisions instead of being pressured into doing something I didn't want or know what it was. She was very flexible and definitely had our best interest in mind. Having an advocate in the delivery room and throughout my pregnancy, coupled with Susie's expertise, confident sweetness, flexibility, and integrity truly was invaluable.
Testimonial from Tracy B Moms in the market for a doula - this review is for you! Moms considering/planning for a VBAC - this review is for you! My little Archer was born via unmedicated VBAC with the help of God, my husband, and Susie! I had a smooth hypnobabies-assisted delivery in the hospital with my beloved husband & incredible doula Susie Conrad by my side. I had a supportive provider & a wonderful experience. I delivered at St. Luke's in Bethlehem. (In the interest of full disclosure, I am an employee of St. Luke's, in a different capacity and at a different entity.)
You CAN have a natural labor in the hospital. You CAN have an unmedicated vaginally delivery (women and our bodies are incredibly strong). You CAN have a safe, successful VBAC.
Prepare yourself with facts, a supportive partner & care provider, and an awesome doula. I cannot say enough positive things about Susie as our doula. She was wonderful, compassionate, hands on when I needed it, hanging back to let my husband help me labor when I needed that. I am so thankful we found Susie and had her share in the incredible experience that was Archer's birth! Be confident and empowered in your birthing experiences and your choice of doula, Mommas. You are strong.
TESTIMONIAL FROM MARGIE M
ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 19TH, I GAVE BIRTH TO MY 4TH CHILD, AND 1ST SON, JAMES. IT WAS A SCHEDULED INDUCTION (AS WITH MY PREVIOUS 3 BIRTHS), BUT THE FIRST TIME GOING THROUGH LABOR WITH A DOULA.
BEFORE BEING INDUCED MY BODY KEPT GOING IN AND OUT OF LABOR. I COULDN'T UNDERSTAND WHY MY BODY KEPT FOOLING ME LIKE IT DID, BUT WITH SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT FROM SUSIE CONRAD, I PUSHED THROUGH THE SLEEPLESS NIGHTS OF PAINFUL CONTRACTIONS THAT ALWAYS SEEMED TO STOP. TOGETHER WE FIGURED OUT THAT MY LABOR WAS CONTINUOUSLY STALLING BECAUSE OF BABY'S POSITION IN THE WOMB. SUSIE WAS VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE ON NATURAL WAYS TO WORK THROUGH HIS POSITIONING AND PROVIDED ME WITH INFORMATION ON THINGS I COULD DO TO HELP HIM TURN (HE WAS IN RIGHT OCCIPUT POSTERIOR POSITION).
I BEGAN PITOCIN LATE SUNDAY EVENING, AND AS SOON AS I FELT THE NEED FOR HER SUPPORT SUSIE ARRIVED QUICKLY AND READY TO GO. SHE STUCK WITH ME THROUGH EACH AND EVERY CONTRACTION, REMINDING ME TO BREATH, HELPING ME TRY DIFFERENT POSITIONS THAT I WOULD HAVE NEVER THOUGHT OF ON MY OWN, RUBBING MY BACK AS NEEDED, CALLING FOR THE NURSE WHEN I ASKED, KEEPING MY SPIRITS UP AND MY MIND DETERMINED DESPITE HOW BADLY THE CONTRACTIONS WERE HURTING. I HAD NEVER GONE SO LONG WITHOUT AN EPIDURAL WITH MY OTHER PREGNANCIES, AND FOR ONCE I FELT PRIDE IN WHAT I HAD DONE. IF IT WASN'T FOR SUSIE I WOULD HAVE BEEN CONFINED TO MY BED, FULL OF FEAR AND UNCERTAINTY (AS I HAD WITH MY PREVIOUS BIRTHS). INSTEAD OF FEELING TRAUMATIZED AND ALONE AS LABOR CAN SO OFTEN MAKE YOU FEEL, I FELT LIKE SUSIE, MY HUSBAND, AND MYSELF ALL WORKED TOGETHER AS A PERFECT TEAM. SUSIE NEVER ONCE LEFT MY SIDE. OVER ALL IT WAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LABOR AND DELIVERY I'VE EVER EXPERIENCED, AND I AM BEYOND GRATEFUL FOR SUSIE BEING WITH ME EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. :)
TESTIMONIAL FROM KATY C
I KNEW BEFORE I GOT PREGNANT THAT I WOULD WANT A DOULA FOR THE BIRTH OF MY FUTURE CHILD. I HEARD MANY BENEFITS OF HIRING A DOULA FROM CLOSE FAMILY MEMBERS. OUR SEARCH FOR ONE BEGAN AS SOON AS I WAS IN MY SECOND TRIMESTER. WE MET WITH A COUPLE DIFFERENT DOULAS AND AFTER MEETING SUSIE, WE JUST KNEW. SHE HAS A GREAT PERSONALITY THAT FIT WTH MY HUSBAND AND ME. SUSIE WAS ALSO WONDERFUL AT REASSURING AND EXPLAINING TO MY HUSBAND THAT SHE WAS NOT THERE TO TAKE HIS PLACE (A CONCERN HE HAD ABOUT HIRING A DOULA).
WE PLANNED QUITE A BIT AT OUR FIRST PRENATAL APPOINTMENT, AND MADE PLANS TO MEET AGAIN BEFORE MY DUE DATE. AROUND 32 WEEKS WE FOUND OUT OUR BABY WAS BREECH. SUSIE WAS IN COMMUNICATION WITH US IN REGARDS TO WHAT WE WANTED TO DO, ESPECIALLY IF A CESAREAN BECAME NECESSARY.
I WENT INTO LABOR EXACTLY ONE MONTH BEFORE MY DUE DATE. THROUGHOUT THE COURSE OF MY LABOR, SUSIE WAS IN CONSTANT COMMUNICATION WITH ME. EVEN THOUGH I ENDED UP HAVING A CESAREAN, MY HUSBAND AND I DECIDED WE WANTED TO HAVE SUSIE THERE. SHE ARRIVED AT THE HOSPITAL AND HELPED ME THROUGH MY CONTRACTIONS BEFORE I WENT INTO SURGERY. SHE STAYED OUTSIDE AND WAITED FOR ME, MET ME IN RECOVERY AND SUPPORTED US IN MY POSTPARTUM ROOM. SUSIE FAR EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS OF A DOULA, ESPECIALLY WHEN OUR BIRTH PLAN TURNED UPSIDE DOWN. SHE HAS SINCE BEEN A TREMENDOUS EMOTIONAL SUPPORT WHENEVER I NEEDED IT. I CAN'T IMAGINE HAVING TO GO THROUGH THIS WHOLE PROCESS WITHOUT HER!
Testimonial from Seneca T
Susie was absolutely FANTASTIC. She was there to help us through our miscarriage. When we decided to try again we knew we wanted her to be a part of our birth. She was AVAILABLE through out the pregnancy for all the ups and downs. She helped me through a stressful prodromal labor. Giving me a lot of information that helped me relax, be comfortable, and get our little girl in the right position in those last few weeks. DURING labor she helped my husband ADVOCATE for me when i couldn't. I highly RECOMMEND her to anyone looking for some support for both you and YOUR partner for their pregnancy.