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This video I helped a new mom fix her painful latch. When a latch isn't correct, breastfeeding becomes pretty impossible. The pain can be excruciating as anyone who has experienced it will testify. She contacted me online and we never met in person. She agreed to let me share the video so I could share some of my breastfeeding support techniques. This technique only works if a baby is not tongue-tied. If your baby is tongue-tied, we can try this again after they get it released.
Blink and you will miss it, fixing a latch can be really subtle but the little angles make a huge difference! |
November 2019 Cornell
This baby came right on the eve of pandemic lockdowns!
America Marie January 2019 Weill Cornell Medical Center
Mt Sinai West: 2013 Big Sister & 2015 Little Sister!
Maiysha!!!! Doula Extraordinaire, our friend, and overall awesome birthing goddess that actually got us to the hospital (2xs!) just in the nick of time. Thank you. Thank you. THANK YOU. We are so ever grateful for the work you do! <3 S,J,O and X!
Maiysha!!!! Doula Extraordinaire, our friend, and overall awesome birthing goddess that actually got us to the hospital (2xs!) just in the nick of time. Thank you. Thank you. THANK YOU. We are so ever grateful for the work you do! <3 S,J,O and X!
Sophie N.
Maiysha is simply an excellent Doula.
I chose Maiysha because she's blunt, knowledgeable, honest, very experienced and clearly loves what she does. I was impressed that she educates using evidence-based research for birth outcomes (oddly rare in a sea of old-wives tales and opinions) and that she's a real champion of the rights of birthing mothers. All of that aside, when she walked in when I was in labor, THEN I really understood what she does.
Maiysha is a highly skilled professional in an unquantifiable business. She will tell you herself that it's hard to explain what a (good) doula really does, and she's right. What I can tell you is that from the moment she walked into our home when I was in labor, my husband and I transferred all the 'what is happening, what should we do' stress to her, allowing us to relax and for me to labor. She advised us when it made sense to go to the hospital and provided me with so much support during labor and birth. She knows exactly what you need before you even realize it, from massage, to water, to gently silencing an overly chatty nurse, but it's so much more than all of that. With Maiysha you feel safe in the middle of an intense experience, you know she's seeing everything that's happening and is working for you to be ok. My OB knows and respects Maiysha and Maiysha was hugely respectful of the medical staff. As a result, I never doubted my care and had a better birth experience than I'd even hoped for which is unfortunately not always the case for many women.
Maiysha came back 3 days post-partum and helped with breast-feeding when I was struggling, accurately diagnosing a tongue-tie and recommending a doctor, and answered a few frantic new mother texts. Just knowing she was there in those twilight-zone first weeks was of huge comfort to me.
If you're deciding whether or not to use a Doula, I can't stress enough that you absolutely should. If you want the best, get Maiysha.
Maiysha is simply an excellent Doula.
I chose Maiysha because she's blunt, knowledgeable, honest, very experienced and clearly loves what she does. I was impressed that she educates using evidence-based research for birth outcomes (oddly rare in a sea of old-wives tales and opinions) and that she's a real champion of the rights of birthing mothers. All of that aside, when she walked in when I was in labor, THEN I really understood what she does.
Maiysha is a highly skilled professional in an unquantifiable business. She will tell you herself that it's hard to explain what a (good) doula really does, and she's right. What I can tell you is that from the moment she walked into our home when I was in labor, my husband and I transferred all the 'what is happening, what should we do' stress to her, allowing us to relax and for me to labor. She advised us when it made sense to go to the hospital and provided me with so much support during labor and birth. She knows exactly what you need before you even realize it, from massage, to water, to gently silencing an overly chatty nurse, but it's so much more than all of that. With Maiysha you feel safe in the middle of an intense experience, you know she's seeing everything that's happening and is working for you to be ok. My OB knows and respects Maiysha and Maiysha was hugely respectful of the medical staff. As a result, I never doubted my care and had a better birth experience than I'd even hoped for which is unfortunately not always the case for many women.
Maiysha came back 3 days post-partum and helped with breast-feeding when I was struggling, accurately diagnosing a tongue-tie and recommending a doctor, and answered a few frantic new mother texts. Just knowing she was there in those twilight-zone first weeks was of huge comfort to me.
If you're deciding whether or not to use a Doula, I can't stress enough that you absolutely should. If you want the best, get Maiysha.
Santiago
born 8.2.14 St. Luke's Roosevelt/Mt. Sinai
Dear Maiysha,
This is a long overdue note to thank you for your amazing support during my very challenging labor. As the months pass, the memory of the pitocin and all the less pleasant aspects fades, but the memory of your encouraging words, your soothing touch and your comforting presence remains strong in my mind. So, thank you, thank and gracias from the bottom of my heart. I'm so glad you were one of the first people to welcome Santiago into the world.
All my best, Anna
born 8.2.14 St. Luke's Roosevelt/Mt. Sinai
Dear Maiysha,
This is a long overdue note to thank you for your amazing support during my very challenging labor. As the months pass, the memory of the pitocin and all the less pleasant aspects fades, but the memory of your encouraging words, your soothing touch and your comforting presence remains strong in my mind. So, thank you, thank and gracias from the bottom of my heart. I'm so glad you were one of the first people to welcome Santiago into the world.
All my best, Anna
Alice
6.6.17 Cornell
Madrid P.
Maiysha was perfect for us. Her calm demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond made her a great person to accompany us on our birthing journey. She also took some amazing pictures at our request.
Maiysha was perfect for us. Her calm demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond made her a great person to accompany us on our birthing journey. She also took some amazing pictures at our request.
P K.
Maiysha is an absolutely amazing doula and we were lucky to have her with us during my labor and delivery. She is dedicated, very knowledgeable, and one of the most zen people I've ever met. This combination is what you're looking for when labor kicks in! Most impressive was that literally everyone knew her at Mt. Sinai where I delivered, and someone I didn't know even stopped me in the hall mid-labor saying I was in good hands since Maiysha was my doula. My husband, mother, and I have nothing but glowing things to say about her.
My advice? Book her as your doula ASAP since she is in high demand!
Maiysha is an absolutely amazing doula and we were lucky to have her with us during my labor and delivery. She is dedicated, very knowledgeable, and one of the most zen people I've ever met. This combination is what you're looking for when labor kicks in! Most impressive was that literally everyone knew her at Mt. Sinai where I delivered, and someone I didn't know even stopped me in the hall mid-labor saying I was in good hands since Maiysha was my doula. My husband, mother, and I have nothing but glowing things to say about her.
My advice? Book her as your doula ASAP since she is in high demand!
Erica R.
I can only say if/when I am pregnant with a second child, I'd first tell my husband, then our parents, and then Maiysha (hoping she'd serve as doula again). I come from a family of long labors and I myself had a whopping 52 hour ordeal, no drugs, with labor at home, at the hospital, and at a nearby hotel. I think about this long hard labor as a beautiful experience in large part because the birth team was incredible and Maiysha was at its core. She is calm, authoritative, unflappable, and steady. Those reserves and certainties were, for me and my husband, extraordinary blessings, especially our first time through this process. Maiysha was also the most helpful person for explaining breast-feeding and her postpartum visit did far more for me than the lactation consultancy received in the hospital. Incredible...simply an extraordinary human doing beautiful work.I felt honored throughout and welcomed to the tribe of motherhood by one of it's most shining examples.
I can only say if/when I am pregnant with a second child, I'd first tell my husband, then our parents, and then Maiysha (hoping she'd serve as doula again). I come from a family of long labors and I myself had a whopping 52 hour ordeal, no drugs, with labor at home, at the hospital, and at a nearby hotel. I think about this long hard labor as a beautiful experience in large part because the birth team was incredible and Maiysha was at its core. She is calm, authoritative, unflappable, and steady. Those reserves and certainties were, for me and my husband, extraordinary blessings, especially our first time through this process. Maiysha was also the most helpful person for explaining breast-feeding and her postpartum visit did far more for me than the lactation consultancy received in the hospital. Incredible...simply an extraordinary human doing beautiful work.I felt honored throughout and welcomed to the tribe of motherhood by one of it's most shining examples.
Carter 6.12.14 @ Mount Sinai
Chloé
born 3.12.15 St. Luke's Roosevelt/Mt. Sinai
Hi Maiysha,
Now that our pregnancy journey has ended and our new journey as parents has begun, we wanted to send you a thank you note for everything that you did and for being part of this experience with us.
You were such an important part of our labor and delivery, from the call late on Wednesday night to the moment I was taken into surgery late on Thursday. I can't tell you what a relief it was to see you standing in the emergency room when we first arrived, and to have you by my side literally through every minute of labor! You have a calming presence that was such a blessing throughout the entire night and day.
I learned that having a doula (specifically you!) was one of the best decisions we could have made to bring Chloé into this world. Because this was such a positive experience despite many many unexpected turns the day of, I will be telling any expecting friends that they need to add a doula to their team as soon as possible! If they're in NYC, I will be telling them to get the best, you!
Hope you take care, and thank you again from the bottoms of our hearts.
With love,
Stephanie, Abhi, and Chloé
born 3.12.15 St. Luke's Roosevelt/Mt. Sinai
Hi Maiysha,
Now that our pregnancy journey has ended and our new journey as parents has begun, we wanted to send you a thank you note for everything that you did and for being part of this experience with us.
You were such an important part of our labor and delivery, from the call late on Wednesday night to the moment I was taken into surgery late on Thursday. I can't tell you what a relief it was to see you standing in the emergency room when we first arrived, and to have you by my side literally through every minute of labor! You have a calming presence that was such a blessing throughout the entire night and day.
I learned that having a doula (specifically you!) was one of the best decisions we could have made to bring Chloé into this world. Because this was such a positive experience despite many many unexpected turns the day of, I will be telling any expecting friends that they need to add a doula to their team as soon as possible! If they're in NYC, I will be telling them to get the best, you!
Hope you take care, and thank you again from the bottoms of our hearts.
With love,
Stephanie, Abhi, and Chloé
Kyla K.
My husband says this was the best money he ever spent. A labor that lasted from Sunday afternoon until Wednesday dawn, with no drugs and no needless interventions was made possible by Maiysha's experienced and wise walk through the challenge. I've recommended her to everyone, and all that have had her by their sides at birth have been thrilled. She gives more than one imagines possible, and honors whatever experience each woman chooses. You don't have to be a Ina Mae devotee to work with her. I'm lucky to call her a sister after her loving, capable support!
My husband says this was the best money he ever spent. A labor that lasted from Sunday afternoon until Wednesday dawn, with no drugs and no needless interventions was made possible by Maiysha's experienced and wise walk through the challenge. I've recommended her to everyone, and all that have had her by their sides at birth have been thrilled. She gives more than one imagines possible, and honors whatever experience each woman chooses. You don't have to be a Ina Mae devotee to work with her. I'm lucky to call her a sister after her loving, capable support!
Heidi S.
I wanted to work with a doula who could help me labor with this first baby, and even more importantly, help my husband, help me, during labor. Maiysha is a straight-shooter: no fuzzie wuzzies. But she is very kind, has a great sense of humor, knows a lot about area hospitals (which was very useful in terms of envisioning process upon arrival, etc) and met my nearly violent labor with exactly the level of intense care that was warranted. And she taught my husband how to be with me and carry me through each wave of contraction. Maiysha is non-judgmental, insisting that every birth is different, and that there is no one right or better way to birth a baby. Each circumstance is unique, and informed primarily by the goals of the laboring woman, and then of course, by her baby and her body. Maiysha's lactation advice also really helped me get a better latch, and thus a better nursing relationship with my baby.
Two months later, I want to add in particular that Maiysha was very persistent in monitoring my baby's heart rate during labor, making sure that the rate was always available to the hospital staff, which was trickier than one would think: the monitor kept slipping, and the baby kept moving, and so the rate was a shifting target. But without adequate knowledge of a calm heart rate in my baby, the hospital staff might have increased intervention. So - I am grateful to Maiysha for working with such diligence to make my little girl's heart rate totally obvious to the hospital staff.
I wanted to work with a doula who could help me labor with this first baby, and even more importantly, help my husband, help me, during labor. Maiysha is a straight-shooter: no fuzzie wuzzies. But she is very kind, has a great sense of humor, knows a lot about area hospitals (which was very useful in terms of envisioning process upon arrival, etc) and met my nearly violent labor with exactly the level of intense care that was warranted. And she taught my husband how to be with me and carry me through each wave of contraction. Maiysha is non-judgmental, insisting that every birth is different, and that there is no one right or better way to birth a baby. Each circumstance is unique, and informed primarily by the goals of the laboring woman, and then of course, by her baby and her body. Maiysha's lactation advice also really helped me get a better latch, and thus a better nursing relationship with my baby.
Two months later, I want to add in particular that Maiysha was very persistent in monitoring my baby's heart rate during labor, making sure that the rate was always available to the hospital staff, which was trickier than one would think: the monitor kept slipping, and the baby kept moving, and so the rate was a shifting target. But without adequate knowledge of a calm heart rate in my baby, the hospital staff might have increased intervention. So - I am grateful to Maiysha for working with such diligence to make my little girl's heart rate totally obvious to the hospital staff.
Laila
born 9.16.14 Mountainside Hospital, NJ
A note from Laila's mom:
Six months ago, Maiysha held me, walked me, propped me, hydrated me, guided me and ran everything when our midwife was not around. I got this little girl out of the deal... not bad I say. Not bad at all. Thank you to one awesome doula!
Lenameer G.
Homebirth 2011
Maiysha came to us highly recommended, and as soon as we met her, we knew that we didn't have to interview other doulas. She helped us with each stage of the pregnancy: assisting us in our preparations for birth, being a calming and reassuring presence when I went into labor, and supporting us after birth as well. I'll always remember how well she was able to alleviate my back pain during labor, and how she knew what to say when my doubts arose. She took the time to really get to know me and my family by coming to our baby shower and even hosting a picnic for the babies' families that she was the doula for. It really felt like she became part of our community and not just someone we hired to help me give birth. She's dedicated, reliable, experienced and loves what she does. It really doesn't get better than this!
Homebirth 2011
Maiysha came to us highly recommended, and as soon as we met her, we knew that we didn't have to interview other doulas. She helped us with each stage of the pregnancy: assisting us in our preparations for birth, being a calming and reassuring presence when I went into labor, and supporting us after birth as well. I'll always remember how well she was able to alleviate my back pain during labor, and how she knew what to say when my doubts arose. She took the time to really get to know me and my family by coming to our baby shower and even hosting a picnic for the babies' families that she was the doula for. It really felt like she became part of our community and not just someone we hired to help me give birth. She's dedicated, reliable, experienced and loves what she does. It really doesn't get better than this!
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Kavi
8.27.14
Born at home
Dear Maiysha,
Where do I even begin--to thank you for the invaluable support, guidance and love you've shown me over the past month I had high hopes for what a doula could help us with--& you have surpassed all those expectations & hopes. I'm so grateful to have had your calm, centering energy at Kavi's birth & for helping me to stay focused and grounded through a really intense experience. But most of all, I'm so grateful for the amazing gift of being able to breastfeed my child. I was such a hope of mine and for so long it felt like a crazy pie in the sky hope-- and I knew I could never have gotten here without you! Thank you for sharing information for literally sitting with me for hours as we practiced the same repetitive motions ;), for helping me trust my body, baby & instincts, and also for listening to, validating & soothing all my fears (even the irrational ones!) Every day I breastfeed Kavi is another day I give thanks for meeting you & having had the chance to work together. Thank you from the bottom of all of hearts! Thanks & love always, Shreya
8.27.14
Born at home
Dear Maiysha,
Where do I even begin--to thank you for the invaluable support, guidance and love you've shown me over the past month I had high hopes for what a doula could help us with--& you have surpassed all those expectations & hopes. I'm so grateful to have had your calm, centering energy at Kavi's birth & for helping me to stay focused and grounded through a really intense experience. But most of all, I'm so grateful for the amazing gift of being able to breastfeed my child. I was such a hope of mine and for so long it felt like a crazy pie in the sky hope-- and I knew I could never have gotten here without you! Thank you for sharing information for literally sitting with me for hours as we practiced the same repetitive motions ;), for helping me trust my body, baby & instincts, and also for listening to, validating & soothing all my fears (even the irrational ones!) Every day I breastfeed Kavi is another day I give thanks for meeting you & having had the chance to work together. Thank you from the bottom of all of hearts! Thanks & love always, Shreya
Avery
7.1.2014
Methodist Medical Center, Brooklyn
I was so grateful to have Maiysha by my side once again for the birth of my daughter, Avery. Maiysha was my doula for the birth of my son as well, 2 years ago, and I know it was thanks to her that I had the birth experience I wanted with him. When we found out we were pregnant with baby #2, I knew I wanted Maiysha to be my doula again. A part of me thought, "you don't need a doula this time around. You've already had a baby, so you know what to expect". HA! So not true! It ended up being such a different experience from the birth of my first baby, from beginning to end,
and having Maiysha there to support me through the entire experience was a God-send. I can't recommend her highly enough, even for subsequent pregnancies, and my husband agrees!
(Avery's brother is Owen, a few scrolls down the page)
7.1.2014
Methodist Medical Center, Brooklyn
I was so grateful to have Maiysha by my side once again for the birth of my daughter, Avery. Maiysha was my doula for the birth of my son as well, 2 years ago, and I know it was thanks to her that I had the birth experience I wanted with him. When we found out we were pregnant with baby #2, I knew I wanted Maiysha to be my doula again. A part of me thought, "you don't need a doula this time around. You've already had a baby, so you know what to expect". HA! So not true! It ended up being such a different experience from the birth of my first baby, from beginning to end,
and having Maiysha there to support me through the entire experience was a God-send. I can't recommend her highly enough, even for subsequent pregnancies, and my husband agrees!
(Avery's brother is Owen, a few scrolls down the page)
4.2.14 @ Beth Israel
Words cannot describe how happy we are that we had Maiysha as our Doula for our first childbirth experience. When it was crunch time for us, we found her many years of experience, her knowledge of hospital protocols and her calming spirit to be extremely valuable. She is excellent!!! During the many decision points of our labor process Maiysha helped us to slow things down so that we felt in control (even though our baby girl was really calling the shots). We felt informed and empowered every step of the way. She is the ultimate professional and has a wealth of knowledge and perspective on the birthing process. We loved the fact that she is extremely tech savvy and could share her research and her own personal points of view on various birthing topics via her website and her G files and folders. We also loved the ability to communicate with her ‘on-the-go’ with a quick text message. She always responded promptly to our questions before and after delivery. Maiysha was also extremely helpful to us after the delivery of our baby girl. She was an amazing coach and helped us get on track with breastfeeding. This was more challenging then we could have ever imagined. In the beginning it was stressful but Maiysha spent hours with us on a Sunday evening until we got it right. She went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we had the birth experience we wanted. We are grateful for her patience, dedication and commitment. She is truly a special person, has the ‘right touch’ and is a brilliant master of her craft. We are blessed to have connected with her during such a special time in our lives.
Words cannot describe how happy we are that we had Maiysha as our Doula for our first childbirth experience. When it was crunch time for us, we found her many years of experience, her knowledge of hospital protocols and her calming spirit to be extremely valuable. She is excellent!!! During the many decision points of our labor process Maiysha helped us to slow things down so that we felt in control (even though our baby girl was really calling the shots). We felt informed and empowered every step of the way. She is the ultimate professional and has a wealth of knowledge and perspective on the birthing process. We loved the fact that she is extremely tech savvy and could share her research and her own personal points of view on various birthing topics via her website and her G files and folders. We also loved the ability to communicate with her ‘on-the-go’ with a quick text message. She always responded promptly to our questions before and after delivery. Maiysha was also extremely helpful to us after the delivery of our baby girl. She was an amazing coach and helped us get on track with breastfeeding. This was more challenging then we could have ever imagined. In the beginning it was stressful but Maiysha spent hours with us on a Sunday evening until we got it right. She went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure we had the birth experience we wanted. We are grateful for her patience, dedication and commitment. She is truly a special person, has the ‘right touch’ and is a brilliant master of her craft. We are blessed to have connected with her during such a special time in our lives.
Bucklin Solvei
1.4.14 @ NYU
When planning for my delivery I questioned whether or not I wanted to use a doula. In retrospect I don't know how I would've coped as I did without Maiysha. She arrived when I was already in active labor since she was filling in for our doula. My experience improved drastically upon her arrival. The comforting efforts of my husband became so much more effective once Maiysha arrived and I was able to make it through to full dilation without any drugs. Maiysha's guiding presence permeated the whole birth experience yet she didn't have a heavy handed approach.
When later in the delivery various interventions were deemed necessary by my doctor for the baby's health it was extremely comforting to have Maiysha there to provide a trusted and experienced perspective.
1.4.14 @ NYU
When planning for my delivery I questioned whether or not I wanted to use a doula. In retrospect I don't know how I would've coped as I did without Maiysha. She arrived when I was already in active labor since she was filling in for our doula. My experience improved drastically upon her arrival. The comforting efforts of my husband became so much more effective once Maiysha arrived and I was able to make it through to full dilation without any drugs. Maiysha's guiding presence permeated the whole birth experience yet she didn't have a heavy handed approach.
When later in the delivery various interventions were deemed necessary by my doctor for the baby's health it was extremely comforting to have Maiysha there to provide a trusted and experienced perspective.
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Sawyer
11.5.13 St. Luke's Roosevelt A note from Sawyer's mom: As a first time mother, I took two different childbirth classes, a breast-feeding class, an infant care class and infant CPR. Thank goodness I didn't stop there. Having a baby is a live-action event, where unexpected things happen - things that don't get covered in class, things that you won't have time to look up in a book. Out of everything, including the doctors and the hospital I choose, having Maiysha as a guide and support was the single best decision I made for myself and my baby. She was indispensable during the 60 hours in which I was in active labor: She traveled with my husband and I as we made multiple trips to the hospital. She offered pain relieving techniques. She translated the medical information I was receiving into information I could readily understand. Her help also allowed my husband to get a small bit of needed rest during our long ordeal. Without her support, I would have asked for an epidural sooner, increasing the likelihood of a c-section. (I waited 40 hours before making this decision.) As much as I relied on Maiysha during labor, I actually needed her even more for navigating postpartum complications. The hospital nurses kept telling me I was doing a great job breast feeding, but by my first day at home I was bleeding from my nipples. If not for Maiysha, I may have given up and resorted to formula feeding. She very patiently helped my baby and I to correct our "bad latch." She has also been instrumental in navigating questions about pacifiers, breast-pumps, supplemental bottle-feeding, co-sleeping and all kinds of other real and evolving issues in the life of a mother and newborn. With her help, my baby is well-fed and everyone in my house is getting enough sleep. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Maiysha! |
Maiysha was instrumental in helping us achieve exactly the birth experience we wanted. Her advice before, her support during and her (brilliant) lactation help after our son's birth were all spot on. We are so thankful to Maiysha for her kindness and expertise. If we are lucky enough to have another baby we hope Maiysha will be with us again.
- Miriam, Jimmy and baby Graham born 2.15.14 at Cornell
- Miriam, Jimmy and baby Graham born 2.15.14 at Cornell
Amélie
Born 1.3.14 @ Methodist, Park Slope.
I'm a new mother to a sweet little girl and decided to work with a doula. Being a single parent, I was very concerned about having a strong support system for labor and delivery. When I met Maiysha, I immediately felt that she'd be a good person for me and my situation. She's smart, extremely knowledgeable and was a real comfort during the entire process. Even when my birth didn't go according to plan, Maiysha was very flexible and was excellent at calming any fear or anxiety I had. I'm so grateful she was there during the most important day of my life.
Born 1.3.14 @ Methodist, Park Slope.
I'm a new mother to a sweet little girl and decided to work with a doula. Being a single parent, I was very concerned about having a strong support system for labor and delivery. When I met Maiysha, I immediately felt that she'd be a good person for me and my situation. She's smart, extremely knowledgeable and was a real comfort during the entire process. Even when my birth didn't go according to plan, Maiysha was very flexible and was excellent at calming any fear or anxiety I had. I'm so grateful she was there during the most important day of my life.
Josip
11.10.13 @ St. Luke's Mt Sinai Roosevelt Maiysha was invaluable in providing us with care and comfort through the ups and downs we experienced as first time parents to- be. We were empowered with the knowledge she shared with us during our prenatal visits, throughout labor and delivery, and postpartum. Her poise and confidence was a grounding presence in what seemed like a whirlwind of a labor. Also, I was able to overcome early breastfeeding challenges with her expertise and encouragement. We are beyond grateful to have had Maiysha by our side. |
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Tova
October 20, 2013
NYU
A note from Tova's mom:
In the beginning of my pregnancy, my husband and I were skeptical about the need for a Doula. We were hesitant to spend any of the small amount of disposable income that we have on something that was not absolutely "necessary". After encouragement from our birthing instructor, and sage words of advice from relatives that childbirth was not a time to be frugal we decided to start interviewing Doulas. We feel very very lucky to have met Maiysha Campbell. Maiysha is confident, compassionate, and highly knowledgeable about the entire process of giving birth. We have remarked several times since our delivery how Maiysha truly was a godsend, and how we feel like it was the best money we ever spent!
From the beginning of my pregnancy, our goal was to have a natural childbirth, with as little medical intervention as possible. This was slightly complicated by the fact that I tested positive for the group b strep virus. With Maiysha's help, we were able to have exactly the experience that we wanted to have, and I was able to give birth to a beautiful daughter without any medical interventions or drugs. That being said, it was also very comforting to know that Maiysha's broad range of experience, and nonjudgmental personality would have helped guide me through the process had it been necessary to go in a different direction. It was clear from the start that Maiysha's agenda, first and foremost, was to make sure that we had a healthy baby, and this was a great comfort.
In addition to being a great source of support to me, Maiysha was also a tremendous help to my husband. Maiysha's presence allowed my husband to be more present and relaxed throughout the process of labor and delivery. She worked seamlessly with the staff at NYU, and it was clear that the nurses and doctors there held her in high regard.
We had two prenatal meetings and she also visited us shortly after our daughter was born, and provided very helpful information on breast-feeding and infant care. She has remained available to us to answer late night questions about engorged breasts, diaper rashes, and other miscellaneous child care questions.
We highly recommend Maiysha, and would be happy to speak about our experience with any prospective clients who have questions.
October 20, 2013
NYU
A note from Tova's mom:
In the beginning of my pregnancy, my husband and I were skeptical about the need for a Doula. We were hesitant to spend any of the small amount of disposable income that we have on something that was not absolutely "necessary". After encouragement from our birthing instructor, and sage words of advice from relatives that childbirth was not a time to be frugal we decided to start interviewing Doulas. We feel very very lucky to have met Maiysha Campbell. Maiysha is confident, compassionate, and highly knowledgeable about the entire process of giving birth. We have remarked several times since our delivery how Maiysha truly was a godsend, and how we feel like it was the best money we ever spent!
From the beginning of my pregnancy, our goal was to have a natural childbirth, with as little medical intervention as possible. This was slightly complicated by the fact that I tested positive for the group b strep virus. With Maiysha's help, we were able to have exactly the experience that we wanted to have, and I was able to give birth to a beautiful daughter without any medical interventions or drugs. That being said, it was also very comforting to know that Maiysha's broad range of experience, and nonjudgmental personality would have helped guide me through the process had it been necessary to go in a different direction. It was clear from the start that Maiysha's agenda, first and foremost, was to make sure that we had a healthy baby, and this was a great comfort.
In addition to being a great source of support to me, Maiysha was also a tremendous help to my husband. Maiysha's presence allowed my husband to be more present and relaxed throughout the process of labor and delivery. She worked seamlessly with the staff at NYU, and it was clear that the nurses and doctors there held her in high regard.
We had two prenatal meetings and she also visited us shortly after our daughter was born, and provided very helpful information on breast-feeding and infant care. She has remained available to us to answer late night questions about engorged breasts, diaper rashes, and other miscellaneous child care questions.
We highly recommend Maiysha, and would be happy to speak about our experience with any prospective clients who have questions.
Sierra
9.15.13 Mt. Sinai West St. Luke's Roosevelt
A note from Sierra's dad:
"I've worked with many talented people across industries and I can say with confidence that Maiysha does her job better than nearly anyone I've ever met. I sincerely believe that she significantly reduced the risk of complications during labor and birth. She did that by helping both me and my wife relax in the midst of intensity, giving us a clear and very detailed idea of what was coming, by proving a calm presence in extremely challenging times, and by telling us how to understand and communicate with the medical staff, among other things. Even in the months before birth, we felt more relaxed knowing that whatever happened, Maiysha would be there. After working with Maiysha, I actually feel that I understand the word 'emotional support' in a whole new way."
"Of all the things we spent money on pre-birth, my wife and I agree that Maiysha was by far the best value for dollar. We were laughing at what value she provided as compared to much more minor things like a private room, pre-pregnancy classes, etc."
9.15.13 Mt. Sinai West St. Luke's Roosevelt
A note from Sierra's dad:
"I've worked with many talented people across industries and I can say with confidence that Maiysha does her job better than nearly anyone I've ever met. I sincerely believe that she significantly reduced the risk of complications during labor and birth. She did that by helping both me and my wife relax in the midst of intensity, giving us a clear and very detailed idea of what was coming, by proving a calm presence in extremely challenging times, and by telling us how to understand and communicate with the medical staff, among other things. Even in the months before birth, we felt more relaxed knowing that whatever happened, Maiysha would be there. After working with Maiysha, I actually feel that I understand the word 'emotional support' in a whole new way."
"Of all the things we spent money on pre-birth, my wife and I agree that Maiysha was by far the best value for dollar. We were laughing at what value she provided as compared to much more minor things like a private room, pre-pregnancy classes, etc."
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May 15, 2013 Naftali @ Mt Sinai West |
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Ari Dillon
July 7, 2013 • Weill Cornell
Hi Maiysha,
Ten weeks into parenthood and I'd be remiss if not to thank you again for all your help in preparing us for and supporting us during labor and delivery. Your presence took a lot of pressure off our shoulders--it allowed us to enjoy the journey without worrying about the figurative roadmap constantly! To all of our friends who are now thinking about starting a family, we say, "Get a doula!"
July 7, 2013 • Weill Cornell
Hi Maiysha,
Ten weeks into parenthood and I'd be remiss if not to thank you again for all your help in preparing us for and supporting us during labor and delivery. Your presence took a lot of pressure off our shoulders--it allowed us to enjoy the journey without worrying about the figurative roadmap constantly! To all of our friends who are now thinking about starting a family, we say, "Get a doula!"
DaVinci & RubyAnn
Davinci
10.19.12 born at home
RubyAnn
November 3, 2010 Beth Israel
Davinci
10.19.12 born at home
RubyAnn
November 3, 2010 Beth Israel
Anayansi
4.19.13
Born at home
Anayansi's older brother Gibran is about two years
down on this page.
Clyde
February 20, 2013
NYU
Maiysha is smart and funny. She knows when it is time to laugh and when it is time to be the still point of utter reassurance in a spinning room.
When I had to be induced on about six hours notice, she was there immediately, helping us create, in the hospital room, the intimate, loving and brave experience of "flow" with labor that we'd hoped to have at home. Before labor, she helped me come to valuable clarity about how to hold hopes for a VBAC without fixating on it ... and she was a joyful part of the process of that hoped-for delivery when it happened. For moms getting ready for a second child, she is indispensable before and after, in the post-partum period, when the new family is taking shape. We love Maiysha. That's the simple truth.
February 20, 2013
NYU
Maiysha is smart and funny. She knows when it is time to laugh and when it is time to be the still point of utter reassurance in a spinning room.
When I had to be induced on about six hours notice, she was there immediately, helping us create, in the hospital room, the intimate, loving and brave experience of "flow" with labor that we'd hoped to have at home. Before labor, she helped me come to valuable clarity about how to hold hopes for a VBAC without fixating on it ... and she was a joyful part of the process of that hoped-for delivery when it happened. For moms getting ready for a second child, she is indispensable before and after, in the post-partum period, when the new family is taking shape. We love Maiysha. That's the simple truth.
Eva
February 1, 2013
St. Lukes Roosevelt Birthing Center
Maiysha was the most wonderful and knowledgable doula! I am so glad that she was there to help us through the days approaching Eva's birth, the birth itself, and once we got home with our new baby girl. Our prenatal visits were calming and reassuring, while providing important information for both my husband and I. Tips and tricks she came equipped with helped progress labor, and her strong, reliable presence was a most needed crutch during the birth. Once we brought Eva home, we were in a bit of a frenzy over nursing, and her guidance and wise words were honestly invaluable. I'm not sure I could've had the natural birthing experience I wanted, were it not for my amazing doula, and I hope to have her around for the birth of all my children.
February 1, 2013
St. Lukes Roosevelt Birthing Center
Maiysha was the most wonderful and knowledgable doula! I am so glad that she was there to help us through the days approaching Eva's birth, the birth itself, and once we got home with our new baby girl. Our prenatal visits were calming and reassuring, while providing important information for both my husband and I. Tips and tricks she came equipped with helped progress labor, and her strong, reliable presence was a most needed crutch during the birth. Once we brought Eva home, we were in a bit of a frenzy over nursing, and her guidance and wise words were honestly invaluable. I'm not sure I could've had the natural birthing experience I wanted, were it not for my amazing doula, and I hope to have her around for the birth of all my children.
Priya
1.23.13
Mt. Sinai West
St. Luke's Roosevelt
Simone & Willow
October 28, 2012 • Mt. Sinai West
October 28, 2012 • Mt. Sinai West
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Pia Elsa
August 20, 2012
Presbyterian Methodist Hospital Brooklyn
A letter from Pia's mom:
Dear Maiysha,
Pete and I wanted to share this photo of Pia with you - and also to give you a small thank you gift or all of your wonderful support during the birth of our daughter. We both say that we couldn't have done it without you! Your calm presence and warm energy were so important to us having an easy labor -- it was long -- but never felt overwhelming. And your help with breastfeeding after Pia was born has also been invaluable.
Love,
C.C.
August 20, 2012
Presbyterian Methodist Hospital Brooklyn
A letter from Pia's mom:
Dear Maiysha,
Pete and I wanted to share this photo of Pia with you - and also to give you a small thank you gift or all of your wonderful support during the birth of our daughter. We both say that we couldn't have done it without you! Your calm presence and warm energy were so important to us having an easy labor -- it was long -- but never felt overwhelming. And your help with breastfeeding after Pia was born has also been invaluable.
Love,
C.C.
Billie
April 17, 2012
Maimonides Medical Center
Brooklyn, NY
Owen
June 7, 2012
Presbyterian Methodist Hospital
A letter from Owen's mom:
There are no words to express how lucky I feel to have found Maiysha. I knew I wanted a natural childbirth, but I was afraid of the pain, and doubted that I'd be able to do it. From the very start, Maiysha's energy and presence gave me the confidence I needed. Her approach is gentle, compassionate, and empowering. She took the time to get to know my husband and I and talk about our birth plan and preferences, and I could tell it was important to her to be able to support us in having the birth experience that we wanted.
When I went into labor and called Maiysha, she came right over and stayed with us through the entire labor and delivery and for several hours afterwards. I'm absolutely certain that having her by my side was what enabled me to keep going, even when it felt really hard. She knew just what to say and what to do to keep me calm, to reassure me, and to guide my husband and I through this incredible, life-changing experience. I am truly grateful that we met her and hired her as our doula. Thanks to her, I was able to realize my goal and dream of natural childbirth, and on the other side of it, I discovered the strong, powerful, loving Mom inside of me, who was born at the very same time as my son. What a gift! Thank you Maiysha, you are wonderful!!
June 7, 2012
Presbyterian Methodist Hospital
A letter from Owen's mom:
There are no words to express how lucky I feel to have found Maiysha. I knew I wanted a natural childbirth, but I was afraid of the pain, and doubted that I'd be able to do it. From the very start, Maiysha's energy and presence gave me the confidence I needed. Her approach is gentle, compassionate, and empowering. She took the time to get to know my husband and I and talk about our birth plan and preferences, and I could tell it was important to her to be able to support us in having the birth experience that we wanted.
When I went into labor and called Maiysha, she came right over and stayed with us through the entire labor and delivery and for several hours afterwards. I'm absolutely certain that having her by my side was what enabled me to keep going, even when it felt really hard. She knew just what to say and what to do to keep me calm, to reassure me, and to guide my husband and I through this incredible, life-changing experience. I am truly grateful that we met her and hired her as our doula. Thanks to her, I was able to realize my goal and dream of natural childbirth, and on the other side of it, I discovered the strong, powerful, loving Mom inside of me, who was born at the very same time as my son. What a gift! Thank you Maiysha, you are wonderful!!
Candela
April 24, 2012
Mt. Sinai West
Jonah Paul
April 19th, 2012
Lenox Hill Hospital
Theresa & Josephine >
April 27th, 2014
St. Vincents Medical Center
Connecticut
Their big brother is pictured below and their baby #4 was born with me too!
April 27th, 2014
St. Vincents Medical Center
Connecticut
Their big brother is pictured below and their baby #4 was born with me too!
Jeremiah
April 8, 2012
St. Vincents Medical Center
Birthing Center
Connecticut
Thomas Gabriel February 16, 2012 Lennox Hill Hospital
Taneigha
January 23, 2012
Beth Israel Medical Center
Charlotte Ella
December 8, 2011
Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
A letter from Charlotte's mom:
Darling Maiysha, THANK YOU so much for your beautiful presence & support throughout our birth. We COULD NOT have done it without you!! Your spirit is so lovely - such a blessing!!
All our love ... xoxo
Mom, Dad & Charlotte
Otis
December 2, 2011. Born at home.
December 2, 2011. Born at home.
Desmond
September 28, 2011
Born at home
"Without Maiysha's expertise, Steve and I would have been losing our minds but she made us feel safe and ok and helped bring him into this world gently, with love."
September 28, 2011
Born at home
"Without Maiysha's expertise, Steve and I would have been losing our minds but she made us feel safe and ok and helped bring him into this world gently, with love."
Isla
August 14, 2011
Mt. Sinai West
Martín
July 18, 2011
Born at home
- Marcus
July 2, 2011
Mt. Sinai Medical Center
A letter from Marcus' mom:
As a neonatologist in training, I have attended many births for my job, but had never gone through the experience myself. I actually wasn't even certain what a doula actually did prior to this experience, but decided to hire one at my OB's suggestion.
Meeting and hiring Maiysha was the best birthing decision I could have ever made! I can't imagine the process without her. She had an extremely knowledgeable, calming, nurturing and supportive demeanor with both me and my husband, that made the labor and birthing process MUCH less stressful. I can honestly say that she was the glue that brought everything together that day-- and now we have a beautiful healthy baby boy to show for it!
Mai was also very helpful post-partum with parental advice and lactation help. I am now able to breastfeed my son completely pain free, which was NOT the case a few weeks ago. I will be recommending Maiysha to all my pregnant friends and strongly encourage people reading this to contact her-- it will change your birthing experience!
Abigail
Born June 21, 2011
Mount Sinai West
Postpartum client
Xiomara
April 21, 2011
Beth Israel Medical Center
A letter from Xiomara's mom:
When my boyfriend and I met Maiysha at one of our Centering Pregnancy groups, we clicked and horded her time right away! She was down to earth, real, and very supportive. After choosing her as our doula we got right into activities to help us realize what it is to give birth and be in the transition from a couple to a family. Along the way we realized that all our research and knowledge, though it wasn't for nothing, was a false net at the bottom of our trapeeze act. Everything we planned for was flipped on its head and had it not been for Maiysha we would've been more upset at the fact that we didn't go "according to plan" instead of reveling in the fact that my daughter was being brought into the world in a beautiful and healthy manner. My birth experience was my own because Maiysha was there to help me realize it. She is a phenomenal doula and I hope many future parents get to enjoy her services!
April 21, 2011
Beth Israel Medical Center
A letter from Xiomara's mom:
When my boyfriend and I met Maiysha at one of our Centering Pregnancy groups, we clicked and horded her time right away! She was down to earth, real, and very supportive. After choosing her as our doula we got right into activities to help us realize what it is to give birth and be in the transition from a couple to a family. Along the way we realized that all our research and knowledge, though it wasn't for nothing, was a false net at the bottom of our trapeeze act. Everything we planned for was flipped on its head and had it not been for Maiysha we would've been more upset at the fact that we didn't go "according to plan" instead of reveling in the fact that my daughter was being brought into the world in a beautiful and healthy manner. My birth experience was my own because Maiysha was there to help me realize it. She is a phenomenal doula and I hope many future parents get to enjoy her services!
Sabria
March 16, 2011
NYU Langone Medical Center
Gibran
February 8, 2011
Postpartum & Breastfeeding support client.
I was not at Gibran's birth, I met him and family after 7 weeks postpartum and helped him nurse for the first time. His big sister Anayansi is also on this page.
Francis
February 23, 2011
Born at home
Lee
February 18, 2011
Born at home
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Haydée January 11, 2011 Born at home |
Holly
December 1, 2010
Beth Isreal Medical Center
A letter from Holly's Mom:
I have only wonderful things to say about Maiysha. She's someone for whom being a doula is obviously a life calling - she's that good at it, really. She is calm, compassionate, and I have no idea how she did it, but she knew exactly what to do/say throughout a very long labor. My husband is just as enthusiastic about her as I am. This was baby number one for me and the whole thing seemed like a big unknown to me - I didn't know what a doula really did in practice, and even though I knew I wanted one, I went into it not completely understanding her role.
It turns out it was the best thing I could have done to a) get a doula and b) get Maiysha. She was very understanding of my preferences, it was all about my choices and comfort, and with her and Jamie (my husband) I felt super well surrounded. Her style, in a nutshell, is: calm, soothing; thinking about all the things you won't think about (like making sure you drink, having lipbalm! etc...), helping you negotiate the harder moments, making you feel like you can do it, gosh, words fail me to describe that lady! I know it's all about feeling and personalities, but from me you'll only get a glowing review of her work.
Hope this helps and congratulations!
December 1, 2010
Beth Isreal Medical Center
A letter from Holly's Mom:
I have only wonderful things to say about Maiysha. She's someone for whom being a doula is obviously a life calling - she's that good at it, really. She is calm, compassionate, and I have no idea how she did it, but she knew exactly what to do/say throughout a very long labor. My husband is just as enthusiastic about her as I am. This was baby number one for me and the whole thing seemed like a big unknown to me - I didn't know what a doula really did in practice, and even though I knew I wanted one, I went into it not completely understanding her role.
It turns out it was the best thing I could have done to a) get a doula and b) get Maiysha. She was very understanding of my preferences, it was all about my choices and comfort, and with her and Jamie (my husband) I felt super well surrounded. Her style, in a nutshell, is: calm, soothing; thinking about all the things you won't think about (like making sure you drink, having lipbalm! etc...), helping you negotiate the harder moments, making you feel like you can do it, gosh, words fail me to describe that lady! I know it's all about feeling and personalities, but from me you'll only get a glowing review of her work.
Hope this helps and congratulations!
Aviya
November 20th, 2010,
Presbyterian Downtown aka LOMA
RubyAnn
November 3, 2010
Beth Israel Medical Center