NOVA Birth Services 24430 Stone Springs Boulevard, Sterling, VA 20166

"We feel so lucky and grateful to have had Shannon help us through our baby's birth, the lead-up to it and the postpartum period. First, Shannon made herself available to answer any questions at any time -- this was a good way to get used to asking questions, sharing concerns, and building a relationship ahead of the birth. At the advice of my doctors, I chose to go through with a 39-week induction due to my age and the estimate that our baby was large. Shannon provided evidence-based information related to early inductions for babies considered large for gestational age so I could ensure I was making an educated decision for myself. Turns out the ultrasound measurements were wrong and our baby was average size, but as a first-time mom, I made my decision based on the information provided, and Shannon supported that decision and talked us through what we should expect with an induction. We ultimately welcomed our daughter into the world after ~72 hours of an induction protocol and almost 4 hours of active pushing, and I'm so glad Shannon was there to guide us through all the steps in real time -- initially by text and phone calls, and ultimately in-person once things were clearly progressing. She fit in seamlessly with the hospital staff, working with them to put me in different labor positions, guiding me through exactly what I needed to do during each phase of the process, and acting as my cheerleader. After the birth, Shannon helped me with the baby's first latch. Over the first week, she checked in via text and calls, and supported us through our first pediatrician visit, where we were told we needed to supplement my breastfeeding -- she came by our home for a few hours and helped me learn how to use my breast pump. If we choose to have another baby, I hope to work with Shannon again. I recommend signing on as early as possible to really take advantage of the team's knowledge and experience!"

"I have no idea how my wife found Shannon, but I feel very lucky to have worked with her. My understanding of a doula as the supporting parent in the birth was an expensive person in the room talking to my wife about how to breathe and stay calm. Boy was I wrong!! My wife had always dreamed of having a natural birth, and without Shannon’s support she would never have got one. Shannon directed us to a Bardley Method class to help us prepare, but our baby was breech at 37 weeks. We were told a C-section was in order and an ECV wasn’t recommended because it wouldn’t be successful. The OB who said this never seemed receptive to our birth plan, and there were other red flags too. Shannon let us know that we did have other options, and not all midwife/ OB groups would feel the same way. Through Shannon’s connections we were able to switch to a new midwife/OB and hospital group late in her 3rd trimester. We had a successful ECV performed. Come to the birth day and we couldn’t have asked for a better team. Shannon not only led us to an amazing OB/MW practice and hospital, she was also very hands-on involved in the birthing process. She helped with positions, and used several soothing and pushing techniques with my wife. She knew when it was appropriate to switch gears, and she brought out a strength in my wife—both physically and mentally—that might not have been possible without Shannon’s guidance. Shannon also took care of me. Her presence made me feel safe to trust and enjoy the beauty of natural birth. She helped me to feel involved in the process and reminded me to drink water too :p. We couldn’t have asked for a better birth for our first child and will take advantage of Shannon’s services for the birth of all of our future babies. We can’t thank her enough."

"I hired Shannon to assist me in my goal of a med-free, vaginal birth. We purchased the package that involved birth support, along with a prenatal and postnatal visit. When my wife and I first met Shannon we immediately knew we were in good hands! She could sense my caution with my med-free plan, and my fear of the unknown (this being my first pregnancy/ birth.) She was able to recommend an excellent Bradley Method instructor, and she used her connections to help me get transferred to a midwife/ob group that was so much more supportive of my birth goals (at 37 weeks!). I know 100% that Shannon completely changed the trajectory of my birth experience before even stepping foot in the hospital. She also really took the time to get to know my wife and I before I went into labor-- we went over my birth plan, she asked me how I personally dealt with pain management and stress. Through our conversations she got to understand the dynamics of my relationship with my wife. She did the work and positioned herself to be the BEST possible advocate and support person for us on one of the most exciting, challenging, intense days of our lives! The day that I went into labor, she arrived at the hospital quickly and was an active participant the whole time. I was pretty out of it, and hearing her voice from far off made me feel so safe. I heard her supporting my wife and talking her through what I was experiencing. I heard her reminders that my body was doing what it was supposed to, and there was nothing wrong, and I heard her encouragements. Her breathing suggestions eased my discomfort and pushing suggestions sped up my labor during that final stage. Shannon made sure that I was changing positions to progress when I probably would just stayed in the fetal position the whole time! She advocated for a squat bar when my midwife thought I might be a little too tired to push in that position (I pushed for about 3 hours by this point.) I am so, so glad she did. The squat bar made me feel in control, and probably shaved hours off of my labor time. I thought I’d only need the help of a doula for my first birth experience. After experiencing labor under the calm, competent presence of Shannon I know I’ll be bringing her on for any future births in our household. It’s such a comfort knowing she’s available in our area. I have a lot of love for her and am eternally grateful for the support she was able to provide to both me and my wife!"

"Shannon was an amazing doula! From helping me solidify my birth plan to helping me to the very end she helped me stay positive and grounded. My delivery was a crazy ride, but Shannon helped keep me and my husband informed and "translate" per say. She made sure to stay alert and prepared whenever there was a last minute change for my delivery. From the many times I felt like I was losing to my self doubt she helped pull me out. Her knowledge and hands on techniques definitely helped me not feel "stuck". Shannon has a kind touch and inspiring words that make all the difference. Even post-partum she guided us on what to expect and how to deal with in the moment hurdles. Shannon is an amazing doula and I highly recommend her. Her professionalism, knowledge and kindness put together make the perfect choice. She never once made me feel pressured. Thank you Shannon for everything! I'm so thankful I found you, and for all the support you have given me and my family."

"My husband and I loved working with Shannon! She played a huge role in making sure I had a positive birth experience as a first time mom and I couldn’t have done it without her knowledge and support. During my 40 hour labor, Shannon helped me cope by applying counter pressure during my surges, suggesting position changes, providing encouragement, and helping me make game time decisions. Shannon struck a perfect balance between providing evidence-based advice while also advocating for my needs and wants. Throughout my pregnancy and postpartum, Shannon was always extremely quick to respond to my questions and I loved knowing she was only a text or call away. I found our postpartum visit especially valuable! Shannon came to our home during the chaos of the first week and gave us advice tailored to the specific issues we were facing with our little one (sleep deprivation and feeding). That night, after implementing her suggestions, my husband and I had the best night of sleep we’ve had since our son was born!! We cannot say enough good things about our experience. Everyone needs a Shannon at their birth!"