Mara-Diana McCollum, DONA Certified Doula

Having Mara-Diana as my doula was the best decision I made about my pregnancy! Prenatally, she visited us in our home and helped us prepare for L&D. And on the day of birth, she took over the entire process and new exactly what to do at each step. Whenever I panicked or felt lost during my 16+ hour labor, she grounded me by talking me through it, helping me change positions and keep laboring. I managed to dilate fully without the epidural and only wanted a lower dose of epidural for the pushing stage. I had an amazing birth, felt so empowered and in control, all thanks to her! I was able to feel like myself and start bonding with my baby right after birth, as it was trauma-free! I was terrified of giving birth when I first got pregnant but thanks to Mara-Diana, I have the best memories about it.
I can’t wait to work with her for my second pregnancy when the time comes!

You will not regret the time spent with Mara-Diana! She helped not only me but my husband as well both before and after birth with what to expect, how to help me, and how to adjust to newborn life! Whether you plan to have an epidural or not, having the help during contractions is a life saver! I labored for 19 hours before I was even able to get an epidural, and I don’t know how I would have labored that long without her. My husband could only help so much without getting to a place where he didn’t know what to do- but Mara-Diana gave him ideas and helped him feel empowered and helpful the entire time! If you’re on the fence, this is your sign to make the investment! It was the best thing we ever did!

Mara-Diana is a fantastic birth doula. I highly recommend her to support anyone preparing for labor and delivery (L&D). She's great at accommodating however you and your partner want to be supported through this experience.

Pre- L&D she helped open our eyes to everything we didn't know to think of.

During L&D she went, what felt like above and beyond, considering I was in labor for 60 hrs. She supported us in our home overnight and at the hospital the following day. Not sure how we would have managed what felt like an eternity. She was also great about supporting my medical intervention decisions that went off-birth plan. For example, she doesn't make you feel guilty if you want to get an epidural.

Post delivery Mara-Diana checks in on us like she's part of the family. She's incredibly thoughtful, knowledgeable, and clearly loves babies.

I am incredibly grateful that Mara-Diana served as the doula during my first birth. She was very supportive to my husband and I before, during, and after birth. She listened to our desires, was hands on throughout the process, and helped me meet my changing goals during labor. Mara-Diana was also instrumental helping me get breastfeeding off on the right foot. I highly recommend Mara-Diana when considering doulas.

I am so glad that I had Mara-Diana as a doula. It was my first birth, and she was so helpful and informative during the whole process. I had a positive birthing experience, and having her support and encouragement played a huge part in that. I would highly recommend her!