The birth of our daughter was a long and arduous 36 hours, but we wouldn't have been able to have the unmedicated birth that I wanted if it wasn't for Kathy! She is a delight to work with and supported us pre- and postpartum. She helped educate us about the childbirth process and guided me on proper positioning and stretches to ensure the baby was in the right position at birth. What was most invaluable was her support during labor - Kathy was with us the entire time - from navigating the hospital staff to being our #1 advocate to meet my birthing goals. Words can not truly describe how thankful we are for Kathy - we feel we would have been so lost without her during the process! Beyond the birth, Kathy provided thoughtful postpartum support. She came over a few days postpartum to give a massage and check-in on how I was feeling and provide our baby girl some craniosacral therapy (CST). We appreciate Kathy's expertise and knowledge in the birthing and newborn field and her thoughtfulness to check-in and be available to answer any questions via text/phone/or even swing by if she's in the area! I still schedule weekly massages with Kathy to help with my recovery and cannot thank Kathy enough for her support for our first child. If you are thinking about hiring Kathy as your doula - do it! Do not hesitate to hire her, you want Kathy on your team! - Jen, Craig and Baby Isabelle 2023
My husband and I cannot recommend Katherine enough! We had an unplanned home birth and Katherine was truly incredible throughout the entire process. We couldn’t have done it without her and she made my birth everything that it was- beautiful AND powerful. I will never know how to properly thank her for helping me bring my baby boy into this world, but I know that she will be the #1 person I choose to be on my birth team for my future pregnancies. Katherine is truly an angel sent from heaven and I feel very blessed to have entered motherhood with her by my side!-Analese & Danny 2023
We were so grateful to have Katherine alongside us for our first pregnancy and birth experience as our doula. She did an amazing job educating us with a spinning babies class, and equipping us with exercises to do during pregnancy to make labor easier. She also gave amazing prenatal massages that helped so much with pain. Katherine was there for me the last week of my pregnancy with all of my questions and worries, and was so supportive and helpful at every hour of the day. She showed up at the perfect time when I was in labor, and I truly would not have been able to get through my labor unmedicated without her support. Katherine is so loving, personable, and patient. She is definitely the person you want around during these life-changing moments. She truly provides comprehensive support before, during, and after childbirth and is a wealth of knowledge. -Kylie and Joe Quiroz 2022
If we could bottle up Kathy and gift her to every single one of our pregnant and new and expecting parent friends, we would. The days that Kathy comes to our house for full family massages, CST, baby care support and great conversation are our favorite days of the week. Kathy’s services help us be more sane and present parents to our new baby boy. She is and was a critical part of our parenting journey. You are an absolute gift, Kathy! Thank you for everything! - Allie, Adam and Aiden 2022
Having Katherine as our Doula completely changed our labor and delivery journey for the better, and we couldn't imagine going through the process without her guidance and expertise.
From our initial consultation, she prepared us for what to expect during delivery. She brought up many good points that made us feel more empowered, comfortable, and ready for what to expect.
We signed up for Kathy's Spinning Babies class, which was very helpful in releasing pressure points during my pregnancy. More importantly, the exercises and stretches we believe helped get our baby into position.
During labor and delivery, Katherine's experience and direction were invaluable. A process that can be daunting, she made me feel empowered and confident that through the skills and techniques we had practiced, we could get through it. Even though I had my Husband next to me through the entire delivery, having Katherine by my side provided a different level of comfort, knowing I was getting sound advice from someone who has assisted in many births and trusted. Having her also offered me another person apart from the nurses and doctors I could talk to about healthcare decisions and fully understood and supported my birth plan.
We are so happy we decided to use Katherine as our Doula, and we highly recommend her services to anyone giving birth.- Danielle, Paul & Landon June 2022
From our initial consultation, she prepared us for what to expect during delivery. She brought up many good points that made us feel more empowered, comfortable, and ready for what to expect.
We signed up for Kathy's Spinning Babies class, which was very helpful in releasing pressure points during my pregnancy. More importantly, the exercises and stretches we believe helped get our baby into position.
During labor and delivery, Katherine's experience and direction were invaluable. A process that can be daunting, she made me feel empowered and confident that through the skills and techniques we had practiced, we could get through it. Even though I had my Husband next to me through the entire delivery, having Katherine by my side provided a different level of comfort, knowing I was getting sound advice from someone who has assisted in many births and trusted. Having her also offered me another person apart from the nurses and doctors I could talk to about healthcare decisions and fully understood and supported my birth plan.
We are so happy we decided to use Katherine as our Doula, and we highly recommend her services to anyone giving birth.- Danielle, Paul & Landon June 2022
I had doubts hiring a birthing doula. My first birth, I had a vaginal delivery with epidural. And, that was pretty much my expectation for second time. Things changed the moment Katherine helped me in labor room. Labor pain was unbearable, but her one touch, posturing and breathing techniques, helped me sail through. In a room full of commotion, she was the one keeping me calm. She was there for me, giving me confidence, comforting the unbearable pain, and that look - you got this! And you definitely need that! I didn’t realize until I went through it. I ended up not taking epidural, and had an all natural delivery (fast labor). Thanks to her, I could experience that, and I am forever grateful. Not to forget, her nutritious lactation cookies, I ate just after giving birth. Those help, and are delicious! Postpartum she helped me with massages, which I am still taking, after 5 months of giving birth. And plan to continue till always if possible :D.(She has a magic touch). I am glad I found her! - Manali Dec 2021
I have been seeing Kathy regularly since the second trimester of my second pregnancy. She has been a lifesaver in keeping my body up and running in between travel and dealing with the day to day adventures of a toddler and 2 teenagers throughout the pregnancy and after the birth. She has such a calming energy and is so intuitive when it comes to healing the human body. Her wealth of prenatal and post partum knowledge/experience helped prepare me for adding another baby to the family. My second pregnancy was much smoother with less swelling, no carpal tunnel, and fewer aches and pains right to the end. I scheduled a massage with her right up to the day before my scheduled c-section and had her come over within a week of my delivery. Her breathing tips prior to delivery came in handy post delivery as my body adjusted to the change in hormones, her lactation bars were not only delicious but also helped with the easy transition into breastfeeding, and her massage treatments have helped me sleep better and relax more to aid in a quicker and easier recovery from my c-section. I look forward to every visit with her and would not hesitate to recommend her in a heartbeat! -Susan 2022
I have been working with Kathy for close to a year now. She walked with me through the end of my third pregnancy and has been supporting me through massage and postpartum since. She came into my life at exactly the right time. I never truly prioritized relaxation and self care in my other pregnancies and I finally got smart with my third baby. I started doing massages every couple of weeks and it made all the difference in the energy, wellbeing, strength and health of my mind and body.
Kathy is a wealth of knowledge for all things birth and babies. She refreshed us on labor positions and nightly exercises for getting the baby in the best position. She was reassuring when I would feel anxious and reminded me of what I knew to be true deep down.
The most special thing about Kathy to me is her presence, energy and ability to understand just what I need on any given day. She is intuitive, compassionate and has the familiar love of a mother. She has a strong connection to spirit which shows in her words and work. I feel lighter, more grounded and more connected after every session I have with her. I know that when my day has Kathy in it, it's going to be a good one. - Jenna 2021
Kathy is a wealth of knowledge for all things birth and babies. She refreshed us on labor positions and nightly exercises for getting the baby in the best position. She was reassuring when I would feel anxious and reminded me of what I knew to be true deep down.
The most special thing about Kathy to me is her presence, energy and ability to understand just what I need on any given day. She is intuitive, compassionate and has the familiar love of a mother. She has a strong connection to spirit which shows in her words and work. I feel lighter, more grounded and more connected after every session I have with her. I know that when my day has Kathy in it, it's going to be a good one. - Jenna 2021
Katherine was an integral part of our pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. We are so grateful!
During our pregnancy, she came to our home and helped us create a birth plan that we felt excited about and confident in. We had taken birth prep courses, but her support helped us narrow in on what was important to us. Rather than proscribe what was best, she asked questions about what we valued, gave options we could consider, and suggested additional resources where we could do research if we needed more info. She also taught us exercises to support a healthy (and comfortable!) pregnancy that I could do, and that my husband could participate in. Our pregnancy continued right up to 42 weeks. We had a strong desire to avoid induction. In the weeks before going into labor, Kathy helped me prepare my body physically and mentally through prenatal massages. As a massage therapist, she helped my body be in the best shape it could be in to encourage and support labor—plus enjoy the last weeks of pregnancy, feeling good enough to continue hiking and paddle boarding. With her expertise as a doula, she had great input to help navigate the healthcare processes and decisions we'd need to make during this time frame.
I ended up going into labor right before our induction was scheduled. This being our first pregnancy, my husband and I were so thankful to have Kathy supporting us from beginning to end. In early labor, Kathy was with us on the phone and at our home. She helped with comfort measures and with deciding when to go to the hospital. At the hospital she was an amazing advocate and a true athlete as she provided counterpressure and supportive comfort measures throughout the entire labor. Nine hours after labor began, we got to meet our beautiful little one, and Kathy even helped us get breastfeeding off to the right start and helped ensure we had a good latch during skin-to-skin time.
After our labor, Katherine came to our home for an amazing postpartum massage that truly accelerated my recovery process. Afterwards I felt like I had the balance I needed to return to walking and mild activity. It felt so good to move comfortably again! Kathy also helped me troubleshoot a number of breastfeeding questions. She even stopped by our house again with a number of breastfeeding bras I could try on when she had noticed I didn't have many great options—as a new postpartum mom, clothes shopping (and the inevitable returns that come with it) is such a pain, and I'm so grateful Kathy saw this need and kindly stepped in to help.
As my husband and I recounted and retold our birth story in the days following, every time we would stop to say "What would we have done without Kathy?" I'm sure it would have worked out, but it would have been a "sufferfest". Instead, I can look back and say it was truly a positive experience! - Caitlin & Brett June 2021
During our pregnancy, she came to our home and helped us create a birth plan that we felt excited about and confident in. We had taken birth prep courses, but her support helped us narrow in on what was important to us. Rather than proscribe what was best, she asked questions about what we valued, gave options we could consider, and suggested additional resources where we could do research if we needed more info. She also taught us exercises to support a healthy (and comfortable!) pregnancy that I could do, and that my husband could participate in. Our pregnancy continued right up to 42 weeks. We had a strong desire to avoid induction. In the weeks before going into labor, Kathy helped me prepare my body physically and mentally through prenatal massages. As a massage therapist, she helped my body be in the best shape it could be in to encourage and support labor—plus enjoy the last weeks of pregnancy, feeling good enough to continue hiking and paddle boarding. With her expertise as a doula, she had great input to help navigate the healthcare processes and decisions we'd need to make during this time frame.
I ended up going into labor right before our induction was scheduled. This being our first pregnancy, my husband and I were so thankful to have Kathy supporting us from beginning to end. In early labor, Kathy was with us on the phone and at our home. She helped with comfort measures and with deciding when to go to the hospital. At the hospital she was an amazing advocate and a true athlete as she provided counterpressure and supportive comfort measures throughout the entire labor. Nine hours after labor began, we got to meet our beautiful little one, and Kathy even helped us get breastfeeding off to the right start and helped ensure we had a good latch during skin-to-skin time.
After our labor, Katherine came to our home for an amazing postpartum massage that truly accelerated my recovery process. Afterwards I felt like I had the balance I needed to return to walking and mild activity. It felt so good to move comfortably again! Kathy also helped me troubleshoot a number of breastfeeding questions. She even stopped by our house again with a number of breastfeeding bras I could try on when she had noticed I didn't have many great options—as a new postpartum mom, clothes shopping (and the inevitable returns that come with it) is such a pain, and I'm so grateful Kathy saw this need and kindly stepped in to help.
As my husband and I recounted and retold our birth story in the days following, every time we would stop to say "What would we have done without Kathy?" I'm sure it would have worked out, but it would have been a "sufferfest". Instead, I can look back and say it was truly a positive experience! - Caitlin & Brett June 2021
As international graduate students in San Diego, we didn’t have family or many friends to support us in our delivery and postpartum journey. Additionally, due to family health issues in our home country and the Covid context, we had to return to the U.S. only forty days before our baby’s due date and we had so much to organize before his arrival! In this context, we were lucky to have heard about Kathy's work. We started our contact with her approximately four weeks before our son was born, and she made all the difference in facilitating all challenges we’ve faced in this period. She taught me exercises that I could do in the weeks before my son's birth to facilitate labor and delivery, as well as helped us to elaborate our birth plan. When my contractions started, she came quickly to our home, and her support was absolutely essential for me to be able to manage the pain and have a vaginal birth as I've planned. By the way, during pregnancy, I have learned many breathing techniques from a hypno-birth course that I've attended, but the truth is that Kathy's breathing technique was the one that has worked for me :) She also kindly drove us to the hospital and picked us up two days later. We unfortunately had to have a vacuum-assisted delivery, and Kathy's support was very important at this moment, as she provided me with confidence and instructed my husband on how he could support me too. Kathy has helped me to breastfeed my son in his first hour of life, and I'm sure I wouldn't have been able to do it without her. In the postpartum, the conversations I had with Kathy were helpful for my emotional recovery from the challenging birth. Also, the postpartum massage is fantastic! We strongly recommend Kathy's work, and we're thankful for having her in our lives during this special moment of our son's birth - Aline and Sér June 2021
Kathy was phenomenal. The best parts of labor were made better and as smooth as possible, beyond our best hopes for this experience. When things went wrong, she showed us how we were still in control of the situation We believe that in spite of challenges, Kathy helped us find the best possible outcome. -- Caitlin V, May 2021
A couple months before I was due, UCSD Jacobs Medical Center loosened their restrictions on the number of people attending a labor. My husband and I had been taking the virtual birthing classes through UCSD Health and immediately thought of Katherine. She was comforting and felt like the right fit—considering she had been a constant guidance to us for several months getting through the pandemic. Her demeanor, teaching style and overall charisma and kindness were what drew us in.
We zoom chatted and then met her for a class at our home. She was so informative and hands-on, making sure we were aware of all the options we had for labor. She, along with the WTE app, were the only places I felt I was getting the best information as I prepared for my baby girl.
I made lactation cookies using her recipe and basically followed all of the advice she provided us in the weeks leading up to our due date, and it undoubtedly was the best decision we made during the 9 month journey. I went into labor a few days early, and Katherine was by my side almost immediately.
She kept me sane, calm and feeling safe, during the labor. She was always one step ahead of me, thinking about pressure points, essential oils, positions and mental preparedness as my contractions came and went. I cannot imagine what my experience would have been like without her. She helped my husband just as much as she helped me, guiding him, alternating shifts so everyone could sleep as I labored through the night and into the afternoon of the next day.
She knows how to dance the delicate balance between the labor nurses and making sure we were heard and understood. Up until this point, I had no idea how disconnected birthing hospitals and staff can be from the birthing mother. It is truly a problem and Katherine has been traversing this gap for a long time with poise and respect for the nurses. I didn’t realize you spend the least amount of time with your doctor and most with the nurses and or/doula in those hours of laboring.
Unfortunately, she was not allowed inside the OR when the doctor decided I needed an emergency C-Section. Without going into detail, my husband and I had a traumatic experience and wholeheartedly believe had the staff allowed Katherine in the operating room, things would have turned out differently.
Our baby was taken to the NICU and as I was coming out of a daze and trauma of it all (over-sedation, high spine situation) Katherine was there literally holding me and comforting me when I broke down. She even began helping me express colostrum for our baby, keeping us in the right direction mentally and physically. Without her there, we would have spent so much time alone, processing what had happened and going through the process blindly.
She was the person in the trenches with you and the one overseeing the entire labor, birthing process from a medically informed standpoint and with the birthing mother’s emotional/ physical state as her main priority.
Simply put, she was an angel that I am so grateful for. She has continued her support even following the delivery with massages, and guidance when needed. In our entire journey to parenthood, Katherine was the best decision we made. --Jackie & Tom
We zoom chatted and then met her for a class at our home. She was so informative and hands-on, making sure we were aware of all the options we had for labor. She, along with the WTE app, were the only places I felt I was getting the best information as I prepared for my baby girl.
I made lactation cookies using her recipe and basically followed all of the advice she provided us in the weeks leading up to our due date, and it undoubtedly was the best decision we made during the 9 month journey. I went into labor a few days early, and Katherine was by my side almost immediately.
She kept me sane, calm and feeling safe, during the labor. She was always one step ahead of me, thinking about pressure points, essential oils, positions and mental preparedness as my contractions came and went. I cannot imagine what my experience would have been like without her. She helped my husband just as much as she helped me, guiding him, alternating shifts so everyone could sleep as I labored through the night and into the afternoon of the next day.
She knows how to dance the delicate balance between the labor nurses and making sure we were heard and understood. Up until this point, I had no idea how disconnected birthing hospitals and staff can be from the birthing mother. It is truly a problem and Katherine has been traversing this gap for a long time with poise and respect for the nurses. I didn’t realize you spend the least amount of time with your doctor and most with the nurses and or/doula in those hours of laboring.
Unfortunately, she was not allowed inside the OR when the doctor decided I needed an emergency C-Section. Without going into detail, my husband and I had a traumatic experience and wholeheartedly believe had the staff allowed Katherine in the operating room, things would have turned out differently.
Our baby was taken to the NICU and as I was coming out of a daze and trauma of it all (over-sedation, high spine situation) Katherine was there literally holding me and comforting me when I broke down. She even began helping me express colostrum for our baby, keeping us in the right direction mentally and physically. Without her there, we would have spent so much time alone, processing what had happened and going through the process blindly.
She was the person in the trenches with you and the one overseeing the entire labor, birthing process from a medically informed standpoint and with the birthing mother’s emotional/ physical state as her main priority.
Simply put, she was an angel that I am so grateful for. She has continued her support even following the delivery with massages, and guidance when needed. In our entire journey to parenthood, Katherine was the best decision we made. --Jackie & Tom
We were referred to Kathy as we prepared to welcome our first baby into the world. As we look back at our pregnancy and birth journey - our decision to work with Kathy was one of the most valuable and influential ones we made.
Throughout pregnancy, Kathy consistently provided support and counsel. She visited us in our home several times before our baby girl was born to guide us through a birth plan and introduce us to Spinning Babies exercises, which truly helped prep my body for labor.
Kathy has a way of listening with patience and supporting you in a beautiful, nurturing, and empowering way. She continued to visit often throughout my pregnancy as we began a sequence of healing massages. Up until the day before I gave birth at 42 weeks, Kathy was right there alongside us. At 42 weeks, she came to the house and we decided to move forward with a massage that focused on pressure points that would help me go into labor naturally. Within 24 hours, just like that, my water broke and I naturally went into labor and didn’t have to be induced.
Since our hospital was still locked down due to Covid, Kathy wasn’t able to join us for the birth but she did everything she could during that time. She advised us through my water breaking and as my contractions began.
One of the most special and meaningful ways Kathy served us was in postpartum. After a difficult and frustrating visit from a lactation specialist, I was upset and emotional. As a first time mama, I was struggling to figure out breast feeding and our baby girl was also struggling as she attempted to latch. I called Kathy early one morning desperate, and she was at our home within a few hours. She lovingly helped our baby latch in no more than 3 minutes. Baby girl began to drink and our whole family cried tears of joy. We were so grateful.
A few weeks after birth, Kathy provides you with a healing postpartum massage. That massage truly blessed me in so many ways.
My husband and I couldn’t have been more pleased with Kathy’s services. Beyond serving as our doula, she became a part of our family. We still refer to her as “mama Kathy”, and she still checks in on us and shares important updates and information for the health and well-being of my myself and our baby.
There is no doubt, if we’re blessed with another baby, we’ll have Kathy right there with us. We love you, Kathy. ~ Lynna, Johan, Ísla, and grandma Nora
Throughout pregnancy, Kathy consistently provided support and counsel. She visited us in our home several times before our baby girl was born to guide us through a birth plan and introduce us to Spinning Babies exercises, which truly helped prep my body for labor.
Kathy has a way of listening with patience and supporting you in a beautiful, nurturing, and empowering way. She continued to visit often throughout my pregnancy as we began a sequence of healing massages. Up until the day before I gave birth at 42 weeks, Kathy was right there alongside us. At 42 weeks, she came to the house and we decided to move forward with a massage that focused on pressure points that would help me go into labor naturally. Within 24 hours, just like that, my water broke and I naturally went into labor and didn’t have to be induced.
Since our hospital was still locked down due to Covid, Kathy wasn’t able to join us for the birth but she did everything she could during that time. She advised us through my water breaking and as my contractions began.
One of the most special and meaningful ways Kathy served us was in postpartum. After a difficult and frustrating visit from a lactation specialist, I was upset and emotional. As a first time mama, I was struggling to figure out breast feeding and our baby girl was also struggling as she attempted to latch. I called Kathy early one morning desperate, and she was at our home within a few hours. She lovingly helped our baby latch in no more than 3 minutes. Baby girl began to drink and our whole family cried tears of joy. We were so grateful.
A few weeks after birth, Kathy provides you with a healing postpartum massage. That massage truly blessed me in so many ways.
My husband and I couldn’t have been more pleased with Kathy’s services. Beyond serving as our doula, she became a part of our family. We still refer to her as “mama Kathy”, and she still checks in on us and shares important updates and information for the health and well-being of my myself and our baby.
There is no doubt, if we’re blessed with another baby, we’ll have Kathy right there with us. We love you, Kathy. ~ Lynna, Johan, Ísla, and grandma Nora
We met Katherine through virtual UCSD maternity classes and immediately felt at ease when talking with her about our childbirth plan. Katherine’s positivity and confidence was so important to me when I found out I would be induced at 37 weeks. We were so lucky that the hospital changed the covid restrictions on the day that I was induced, and Katherine was able to join us at the hospital during labor and birth. Since I was induced, there was a long period of waiting before I started having regular contractions. We called Katherine at 3am and she was there at the hospital within the hour, ready to help as the contractions progressed quickly. Katherine partnered with my spouse to support me with a variety of techniques that allowed me to manage my breathing and pain. My main goal was to have a vaginal birth and I was nervous about interventions, including being induced. Knowing Katherine was there to support me eased much of my anxiety, because she was always positive, had confidence and had so much experience with births at UCSD. At the hospital, it was great to have an experienced person and an advocate with us. Labor can be long! We went through multiple nurse and doctor shifts, but through it all Katherine never left my side.
Because of covid, we didn’t have support at home during the first week out of the hospital when taking care of our newborn. We were totally exhausted from our hospital stay, and Katherine met us at our home to help us get everything set up--from sterilizing bottles, setting up the breast pump, choosing baby clothes that fit well, and more. On top of all that, Katherine brought us delicious food. The first week, Katherine helped us with night feedings for our baby, which allowed us to skip a feed and get some much needed rest to recharge. Katherine also helped me get breastfeeding off to a great start, which is a really wonderful gift. Also, her lactation cookie recipe is delicious, and the massage was wonderful!
We feel so grateful we had the opportunity to learn from Katherine and we wouldn’t choose to have done it any other way! We highly recommend Katherine as a support person for childbirth and beyond! :) --Jamie + Danny March 2021
Because of covid, we didn’t have support at home during the first week out of the hospital when taking care of our newborn. We were totally exhausted from our hospital stay, and Katherine met us at our home to help us get everything set up--from sterilizing bottles, setting up the breast pump, choosing baby clothes that fit well, and more. On top of all that, Katherine brought us delicious food. The first week, Katherine helped us with night feedings for our baby, which allowed us to skip a feed and get some much needed rest to recharge. Katherine also helped me get breastfeeding off to a great start, which is a really wonderful gift. Also, her lactation cookie recipe is delicious, and the massage was wonderful!
We feel so grateful we had the opportunity to learn from Katherine and we wouldn’t choose to have done it any other way! We highly recommend Katherine as a support person for childbirth and beyond! :) --Jamie + Danny March 2021
Kathy was recommended to us by a good friend. I’m extremely grateful for her recommendation! I was so scared of the pregnancy and delivery process, but Kathy helped change my mindset and got me to be very excited about it. She was very responsive whenever I had questions about anything! She is very warm, sweet and helpful. We felt so comfortable with Kathy that we asked her to be our postpartum doula as well. I’m not sure what we would have done without Kathy by our side throughout this journey. I recommended her to a few of my pregnant friends and they are all extremely happy with her. ️ Also, her massages are amazing!!--Nadine, Jan 2021
My husband and I both agree, the reason we made it so beautifully through my labor and delivery was because of my doula, Katherine. From the beginning, we felt so comfortable with her. It was as if we had known her for years. We first met Katherine virtually when we took one of UCSD’s childbirth classes and Katherine was the instructor. I knew I wanted the support of a doula during my delivery because it was my first child and I wanted to be able to do it without an epidural. When I heard that the volunteer doulas were not always available, I knew we needed to hire one privately and Katherine was who we wanted. Lucky for me, she was available. Meeting her in person confirmed that she was the one we wanted. I wanted a doula who would support me in trying the “knees together” approach to birth and that’s what Katherine helped me accomplish. She helped us create a birth plan and discussed all the options and possibilities of what could happen on delivery day. I felt more settled after writing it out and made a copy to have in my hospital bag. During the remainder of my pregnancy, she sent me messages through Instagram that were inspirational. She emailed me exercises and stretches to help me prepare my body and the baby for delivery. She also gave me an amazing prenatal massage. It was all so helpful and made me have a sense of calm about the upcoming big day.
I started to go into labor late one night and in the morning I called Katherine to tell her it was time. She came over to my house and helped me labor at home for as long as possible like we planned. If she had not been there, I would’ve gone to the hospital sooner than was necessary. She helped me feel in control and have a sense of calm. I was able to keep myself in such a good head space that my labor progressed quickly. When we arrived at the hospital, the staff seemed to have low expectations for how far along I was since it was my first baby, but when they checked me to see if I could be admitted, I was already 6cm dilated! I was elated! When we got to the delivery room, I met the nurse momentarily, who then left the room and I thought to myself: Wow, we’d be alone just my husband and I in this experience and how awful that would have felt. Over the next couple of hours I progressed, was able to labor in the hot tub, and the whole time Katherine was there teaching my husband how to help me through each contraction with physical assists and verbal encouragement. I remember thinking that although the contractions were strong, I felt like I could totally handle it….and I could! In fact, I delivered my baby girl despite her having a nuchal arm (which means her arm was up and across her neck with her hand on the opposite side of her head). I guess she just wanted to challenge me! It did mean that her position was causing her oxygen levels to lower so they needed to do a vacuum-assist, but with Katherine’s help, I did it. She helped me use the “knees together” approach and I was able to not tear! Even after the delivery, her contact and support with breastfeeding and bottle feeding has been wonderful. Ever since my delivery I have recommended Katherine as a doula to my friends. If I do it again, I will choose Katherine. Hands down, she is the best!--Theresa, Nov 2020
I started to go into labor late one night and in the morning I called Katherine to tell her it was time. She came over to my house and helped me labor at home for as long as possible like we planned. If she had not been there, I would’ve gone to the hospital sooner than was necessary. She helped me feel in control and have a sense of calm. I was able to keep myself in such a good head space that my labor progressed quickly. When we arrived at the hospital, the staff seemed to have low expectations for how far along I was since it was my first baby, but when they checked me to see if I could be admitted, I was already 6cm dilated! I was elated! When we got to the delivery room, I met the nurse momentarily, who then left the room and I thought to myself: Wow, we’d be alone just my husband and I in this experience and how awful that would have felt. Over the next couple of hours I progressed, was able to labor in the hot tub, and the whole time Katherine was there teaching my husband how to help me through each contraction with physical assists and verbal encouragement. I remember thinking that although the contractions were strong, I felt like I could totally handle it….and I could! In fact, I delivered my baby girl despite her having a nuchal arm (which means her arm was up and across her neck with her hand on the opposite side of her head). I guess she just wanted to challenge me! It did mean that her position was causing her oxygen levels to lower so they needed to do a vacuum-assist, but with Katherine’s help, I did it. She helped me use the “knees together” approach and I was able to not tear! Even after the delivery, her contact and support with breastfeeding and bottle feeding has been wonderful. Ever since my delivery I have recommended Katherine as a doula to my friends. If I do it again, I will choose Katherine. Hands down, she is the best!--Theresa, Nov 2020
Kathy gives an amazing massage. I have been in so much pain from a flare up and her massage helped so much. Immediately after I had a huge reduction in tightness and pain. She is very kind and listens to your concerns and really works to help your problem areas. I would very highly recommend her! --Keri, Jan 2021
We were thrilled when we found out that Kathy had been matched with us as our doula through UCSD’s Hearts in Hands program. We had learned about Kathy and her vast experience as a doula through the UCSD 4-part Childbirth Education course (for which she delivered Part 3: Tips from a Doula), so we were very happy to be matched with her. There are many nice things that I could say about our experience with Kathy during the labor and delivery of our son (she was amazing), but I’d now like to speak to our experience working with Kathy through virtual education sessions postpartum. We started with a virtual massage session in which Kathy coached my husband over a video call to give me a postpartum massage. She demonstrated and explained everything so well it was like her hands were coming through the computer screen. We then moved onto infant massage techniques—we couldn’t leave baby out of the massage fun! Kathy also worked with us on tips and tricks with respect to feeding a newborn (and those things that go with that—burping and relieving gas). Kathy customized all of these sessions to our needs after checking in with us over texts and phone calls. I was very grateful that Kathy listened in those phone conversations to what we wanted and needed, and put together the tailored program for us. We’re still in the midst of the fourth trimester, and we plan to take advantage of Kathy’s services again. While we have already learned a lot through the program of sessions that Kathy put together for us in the first couple of weeks following labor and delivery, it’s clear she has a wealth of knowledge, and we look forward to learning more from her. --Kirsten & Ben, Jan 2021
Ever since I found out that I was pregnant, Kathy started to send me some motivating memes about pregnancy on Instagram. It was really nice, because I wasn't working and I felt kind of self conscious about not being able to do too much, but just staying at home. Those quotes that Kathy sent me, helped me to see the importance of eating and keeping myself healthy for the baby.
The night that my husband and I came home from the hospital was a nightmare because our baby was crying and screaming, We couldn't read her cues or understand what she needed. After Kathy arrived, she taught me different ways to breastfeed my baby and most importantly, Kathy took care of the baby for the first few hours of every night, so that I could rest. That really helped me a lot to have energy for the rest of the hours until morning. As time went by, Kathy gave me more and more things to try out with the baby. I learned how lactation works in my body. I learned how to understand what my baby wants even before she starts crying. I was also able to do more and more things, that Kathy had relieved me of when she first arrived. Eventually Kathy went home and we were alone with the baby. After everything she taught me, I felt more confident in myself and in being able to understand my baby.--Winnie Vianuku Nov 2020
The night that my husband and I came home from the hospital was a nightmare because our baby was crying and screaming, We couldn't read her cues or understand what she needed. After Kathy arrived, she taught me different ways to breastfeed my baby and most importantly, Kathy took care of the baby for the first few hours of every night, so that I could rest. That really helped me a lot to have energy for the rest of the hours until morning. As time went by, Kathy gave me more and more things to try out with the baby. I learned how lactation works in my body. I learned how to understand what my baby wants even before she starts crying. I was also able to do more and more things, that Kathy had relieved me of when she first arrived. Eventually Kathy went home and we were alone with the baby. After everything she taught me, I felt more confident in myself and in being able to understand my baby.--Winnie Vianuku Nov 2020
I first met Kathy a few months postpartum, tired and sleep deprived, desperate for a boost, but not ready to leave my baby yet. Kathy came to my home with her lactation cookies and special blend of oils. She had me feeling like a brand new person at the end of my treatment. I was hooked! Unlike most massages, with Kathy; no two appointments are the same. She tailors each one based on my needs and ailments. Two years on my appointments with Kathy, it's what I look forward to all week long! Her ability to connect with me emotionally, along with her healing energy is irreplaceable in my opinion.--Mais, 2021
Where to begin??! We met Kathy through the UCSD Childbirth classes. I had always wanted to explore what it would be like to work with a doula as a first-time mom. My husband wasn’t completely on board until during one of the childbirth classes we watched Kathy demonstrate a doll coming through a pelvic cavity and get stuck, she showed how different positions will support the delivery and descent of the baby…and he was SOLD! Due to covid restrictions we knew she may not be able to be present during the delivery. We started working with her at 30 weeks and she was great to work with virtually. I felt like we were able to make a connection with her despite it being through zoom sessions. I took advantage of Kathy’s prenatal massage at 38 weeks and she is a phenomenal masseuse! (and I’m not even one to like massages) She helped my plantar fasciitis and it was an opportunity to get to know her even better and feel very comfortable with her. As we approached our estimated due date Kathy checked in frequently in a non-overbearing way. I hit a mental block when I passed my due date and proceeded to go beyond it. By 41 weeks I was questioning my body and if I would ever be able to go into labor on my own. Kathy really helped me work through these feelings and trust my baby and my body. Miraculously, this was the time UCSD Jacobs started allowing private doulas back in the hospital! My baby was just waiting for the right time to come and having Kathy at the delivery made it an experience I could have only imagined having. I went into labor at 41 weeks and 4 days at midnight and it was so worth the wait! Kathy came to our home around 5 am and at that point my husband was ready to take me to the hospital. She was like a knight in shining armor! She helped us work through contractions, relax, and guide my husband. The two of them did not stop with pressure points and position changes and massaging. We all got a workout in! Kathy was able to extend our time at home for a few more hours (which was what I wanted!) and we headed to the hospital at 7:15. Upon arrival to the birth center she was such a wonderful advocate. I am a nurse and a people pleaser myself so I knew I would struggle with wanting to be a good patient out of respect for my fellow medical staff but having her present empowered me so much! She let the nurses know to get the bathtub ready to go for me and continued to work tirelessly through my back to back contractions. It was just the 3 of us working through contractions and position changes and I had so much trust and confidence in all she had me doing. At one point my husband asked Kathy if she hadn’t been present, would the labor and delivery nurses be at our side assisting through contractions like her and it was apparent the nurses would not be able to provide the level of support Kathy did. By 12:00 we welcomed our baby boy and it was incredible…the best experience I could have ever imagined. And no stitches thanks to Kathy providing support during pushing to help open up the birth canal. I felt so connected with my husband the entire labor and delivery and I honestly think it would have been a much different experience without Kathy.
Following delivery, Kathy came to our house the day after we were discharged from the hospital. We don’t have any family in the area so having her visit immediately after to help with breastfeeding was clutch. She helped me and baby relax during feedings and showed my husband how to help with positioning. She also put us at ease explaining signs that baby is getting enough nutrition and is satisfied. She taught us the coolest burping technique/massage for baby! I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief after our visit with her as she just made everything so relaxed. Oh…and her post-natal massage was AMAZING. We talked through the birth and recapped things I didn’t understand or remember and it was very therapeutic. I felt like running down the stairs afterwards I felt so good (2 days post delivery)! You cannot go wrong hiring Kathy and I truly believe it is giving you, your partner, and your baby the best pregnancy/birthing/postpartum experience. -- Lori & Cory Sept. 2020
Following delivery, Kathy came to our house the day after we were discharged from the hospital. We don’t have any family in the area so having her visit immediately after to help with breastfeeding was clutch. She helped me and baby relax during feedings and showed my husband how to help with positioning. She also put us at ease explaining signs that baby is getting enough nutrition and is satisfied. She taught us the coolest burping technique/massage for baby! I breathed a HUGE sigh of relief after our visit with her as she just made everything so relaxed. Oh…and her post-natal massage was AMAZING. We talked through the birth and recapped things I didn’t understand or remember and it was very therapeutic. I felt like running down the stairs afterwards I felt so good (2 days post delivery)! You cannot go wrong hiring Kathy and I truly believe it is giving you, your partner, and your baby the best pregnancy/birthing/postpartum experience. -- Lori & Cory Sept. 2020
UCSD Birth-center Lori & Cory meet their baby Boy Eli
Custom Childbirth Education was incredibly helpful in preparing for and moving through the birth of our son. As the corona virus outbreak unfolded, we were disappointed to learn we would be limited in our ability to have a Doula in-person at the hospital. We were thrilled when Kathy of CCE confirmed she was willing to work with us virtually! She provided personalized instruction via video chat, guiding us through exercises and birthing techniques. Additionally, she made herself available to answer questions—of which we had many, as first-time parents!— via text and phone calls, and provided encouragement, informational resources, and coaching support via email. She was also available to video chat into the birth itself. Following the birth, she continued to provide us with helpful, personalized guidance including strategies for postpartum recovery and successful lactation. Thanks to Kathy, we felt supported and well-prepared for our birthing experience, despite physical distancing restrictions. We are forever grateful to her and would highly recommend her services to other families! --Aurora, June 2020
I can highly recommend Katherine as an in-person and/or virtual doula. She taught an awesome birthing preparations class that my husband and I attended at UCSD and she was also the doula for my close friend. We had always planned to use one of the volunteer doulas from UCSD, but when we found out that they were no longer allowed in the hospital (Covid 19), we quickly reached out to Katherine. She was extremely responsive and very easy to work with. We only did one training session with her the night before I went into labor, but she was very thorough and had offered to be on call for us throughout my labor and delivery. She taught my husband and I various positions and techniques for pain management during contractions and the pushing phase. We found it very helpful and I know she would have offered a lot of assistance during the labor process if we had reached out to her. It is clear that she is very experienced and an amazing resource for women in labor and their birth partners. --Tracee, April 2020
Where to start on how instrumental Kathy was as our doula during the birth of our first child! We hired Kathy to be our private doula after taking her birth class through UCSD (also recommend!). She knew an unmediated birth was important to me and during the prenatal visit she helped to teach us stretches and positioning for the final weeks to get baby into an optimal fetal position. Then a week before my due date, I had to be induced due to preeclampsia, which needless to say, was not what we had envisioned. However, Kathy was so reassuring throughout the process. I was induced that evening and Kathy came to the hospital around 8AM the next day. Due to being induced, I was transferred to the labor and delivery unit, and without access to some of the pain relief methods (such as the bathtub) that were available in the birth center, I was very nervous. However, from the moment Kathy arrived, she calmed both my husband’s and my nerves immediately. She jumped into action with various pain relief methods, counter pressure, essential oils, massage...you name it, she did it. I never once had to suggest trying something else because she was able to read the situation so well and know what was working for me and what wasn’t. Not only that, but she also did an incredible job of making sure my husband was able to be hands on and very involved - something we had expressed as very important to us. By 2:30PM, I was starting to question whether I’d be able to make it through, but Kathy looked at me and asked, “Can you do one more hour?” Then went on to say that she believed the baby could be out by then. Low and behold, she was right. After about 45 more minutes, it was time to push. She helped facilitate a position that felt natural to my body, and after three more contractions, we had our baby boy. Who knows, maybe because he was in a great position after all those stretches she taught us!
After the birth, she did an incredible job of frequently checking in on us, offering help, sharing podcasts, etc. and I truly feel like we couldn’t have done any of it without her. My husband even said, “Had I known then (before labor) what I know now, I would have paid double for her.” I sincerely cannot recommend her enough. And as a side note, multiple midwives told me that she is one of their “absolute favorite” doulas to work with. THANK YOU Kathy, from the bottom of our hearts. We are so grateful.--Elizabeth, March 2020
After the birth, she did an incredible job of frequently checking in on us, offering help, sharing podcasts, etc. and I truly feel like we couldn’t have done any of it without her. My husband even said, “Had I known then (before labor) what I know now, I would have paid double for her.” I sincerely cannot recommend her enough. And as a side note, multiple midwives told me that she is one of their “absolute favorite” doulas to work with. THANK YOU Kathy, from the bottom of our hearts. We are so grateful.--Elizabeth, March 2020
My wife and I are both transplants to San Diego with no family nearby. When we attended Kathy’s birthing class we were hoping to gain some basic insight to guide us through what to expect for the birthing process. To our surprise, we gained so much more. Upon learning that Kathy offered private Doula services we immediately booked to meet with her to learn more. We planned on interviewing other doulas but after attending Kathy’s class and speaking with her the second time, we realized her expertise, knowledge and caring personality would be hard to match. Having her as our doula through the last couple of months was extremely comforting and helped both myself and my wife deal with the unknowns of birth. Kathy was available every step of the way and helped us create and communicate our birthing plan and expectations for our birth. She was especially helpful in helping us understand the procedures and how to effectively communicate to the hospital staff our needs and wants. Her guidance and presence was worth every penny, especially in her helping make my wife as comfortable as possible. Not to mention, I was able to fulfill my desire to hand deliver my Son with my bare hands because of Kathy! If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, caring and tenured Doula, look no further! Kathy is the real deal! --Adam and Venessa, Feb 2020
Kathy has been a God send to our new little family. Meeting her was serendipitous. We had not considered having a doula during our labor and delivery, however, the day we met her we knew that she needed to be a part of this journey with us. Kathy was an absolute gem during the last couple months of my pregnancy. She constantly checked in and I knew I could reach out to her about anything. I without a shadow of a doubt believe that I could not have made it through my 24 hour labor without Kathy. She centered me when I couldn't put two thoughts together. She knew what I needed before I ever did. She encouraged us to rest and made it possible for me to actually get some sleep. Kathy helped me stay concentrated during my pushing and helped me decide when new paths needed to be taken to get baby out. I don't know how she lasted so long either. Her postpartum massage was also amazing and so very much needed after labor and delivery. We are blessed to have met Kathy and are happy that she is now apart of our little family :) if you have the opportunity to have Kathy be your doula do not pass it up! -- Soukaina & Maati, Dec 2019
When I checked into UCSD Jacob’s Hospital I was 6 cm dilated and running on very little sleep as I had experienced very intense contractions during the previous 24 hours. As my husband and I entered the birthing center and the RN was drawing a warm bath, I asked that she phone the doula on call. I knew from the minute I learned about the volunteer doula program at UCSD that I wanted to have a doula in our room. Knowing it was possible that all the doulas were already engaged, I prayed that we lucked out that night. The RN quickly let me know that a doula was on her way and I immediately relaxed knowing that we would have another birthing expert in the room.
When our doula, Kathy Grimmett, walked into our room 20 minutes later, I could not have felt more elated. A couple weeks earlier, we met Kathy for an all-day birth preparation class at UCSD. Kathy was knowledgeable and sweet and had the calming presence needed to put any expectant parent at ease. Now she was in our room with us and we knew she would see us through to the birth of our son. What we didn’t know at that moment was that it would still be another seventeen hours until our son arrived.
After Kathy arrived, I labored for 12 hours in the birthing center. As my pain increasingly worsened, Kathy guided me through various natural interventions- breathing techniques, various body positions, pressure point therapy, talk therapy, and aromatherapy. Her sweet and confident demeanor put my husband and me at ease as the pain increased and as I became increasingly more exhausted. She worked incredibly well with the RN and the midwife, and together the team helped me labor naturally until I got to a point where I could labor no more and where we needed to transition to labor and delivery for an epidural.
Although I remember the evening in bits and pieces, Kathy’s presence is in all my memories of my labor. Kathy held my naked body throughout various labor positions, she stroked my hair as I labored in the warm tub, she fed me orange jello when I needed a shot of energy, and she coached my husband and mother-in-law on how to properly apply pressure to my body to help decrease pain. Kathy was integral to my successful labor. I am sure that without Kathy’s assistance that night, I would not have been as calm, and I would not have had as positive of an experience as I did. Kathy empowered me throughout my journey and created an environment where my family felt confident in their role during labor and delivery.
During twelve hours of active support during my labor, Kathy was awake, alert, and attentive the entire time. After stalling out at 9 cm for four hours, the midwife suggested an epidural to help me get from 9-10 cm. Kathy was by my side as they wheeled my weakened body to labor and delivery, and she held my hand and head as I experienced two contractions during the insertion of the epidural. When the pain medicine kicked in, Kathy slept next to me on a cot as I got the three hours of sleep I needed to get to 10 cm. She advocated for me during the delivery and ensured that I felt comfortable throughout the process. After our son Nainoa successfully came into the world, Kathy stayed to complete her paperwork and checked in on us once more before heading home to sleep and rest.
Our Hearts and Hands Doula, Kathy Grimmett, was with our family for 17 hours that evening and morning. I cannot express the amount of gratitude that I have for her work during one of the most important moments of our lives. She arrived at our room as a relative stranger and left as a part of our family. She will forever be a part of the story of Nainoa’s birth and therefore, a part of our family’s history. I am so grateful that the Hearts and Hands doula program exists. It is my hope that this program continues because I know that our doula helped to change our birth experience for the better. She took away fear and concern and replaced it with confidence and empowerment. Due to her words and presence, I felt my body and mind were capable of bringing our child into the world and that feeling was priceless.-- Sara Vogel, 2019
When our doula, Kathy Grimmett, walked into our room 20 minutes later, I could not have felt more elated. A couple weeks earlier, we met Kathy for an all-day birth preparation class at UCSD. Kathy was knowledgeable and sweet and had the calming presence needed to put any expectant parent at ease. Now she was in our room with us and we knew she would see us through to the birth of our son. What we didn’t know at that moment was that it would still be another seventeen hours until our son arrived.
After Kathy arrived, I labored for 12 hours in the birthing center. As my pain increasingly worsened, Kathy guided me through various natural interventions- breathing techniques, various body positions, pressure point therapy, talk therapy, and aromatherapy. Her sweet and confident demeanor put my husband and me at ease as the pain increased and as I became increasingly more exhausted. She worked incredibly well with the RN and the midwife, and together the team helped me labor naturally until I got to a point where I could labor no more and where we needed to transition to labor and delivery for an epidural.
Although I remember the evening in bits and pieces, Kathy’s presence is in all my memories of my labor. Kathy held my naked body throughout various labor positions, she stroked my hair as I labored in the warm tub, she fed me orange jello when I needed a shot of energy, and she coached my husband and mother-in-law on how to properly apply pressure to my body to help decrease pain. Kathy was integral to my successful labor. I am sure that without Kathy’s assistance that night, I would not have been as calm, and I would not have had as positive of an experience as I did. Kathy empowered me throughout my journey and created an environment where my family felt confident in their role during labor and delivery.
During twelve hours of active support during my labor, Kathy was awake, alert, and attentive the entire time. After stalling out at 9 cm for four hours, the midwife suggested an epidural to help me get from 9-10 cm. Kathy was by my side as they wheeled my weakened body to labor and delivery, and she held my hand and head as I experienced two contractions during the insertion of the epidural. When the pain medicine kicked in, Kathy slept next to me on a cot as I got the three hours of sleep I needed to get to 10 cm. She advocated for me during the delivery and ensured that I felt comfortable throughout the process. After our son Nainoa successfully came into the world, Kathy stayed to complete her paperwork and checked in on us once more before heading home to sleep and rest.
Our Hearts and Hands Doula, Kathy Grimmett, was with our family for 17 hours that evening and morning. I cannot express the amount of gratitude that I have for her work during one of the most important moments of our lives. She arrived at our room as a relative stranger and left as a part of our family. She will forever be a part of the story of Nainoa’s birth and therefore, a part of our family’s history. I am so grateful that the Hearts and Hands doula program exists. It is my hope that this program continues because I know that our doula helped to change our birth experience for the better. She took away fear and concern and replaced it with confidence and empowerment. Due to her words and presence, I felt my body and mind were capable of bringing our child into the world and that feeling was priceless.-- Sara Vogel, 2019
"My Doula Katherine was my angel on the ground during my labor and delivery of Carter. In case you have never heard of a "Doula", a Doula is a woman who provides guidance and support to pregnant women before labor through special techniques and exercises to help relax a mom in delivery, during labor and deliver and after to help with new mom tips and tricks, post-partum support and homeopathic health to mom and baby. Today I learned some baby massage techniques to help soothe Carter and a couple baby exercises to help Carter with gas & to prevent colic. Katherine is Aromatherapy Certified, so she also brought essential oils for me to help with anxiety and baby safe oils for Carter to help with relaxation. I have only known Katherine for a short time but I am immensely grateful for her and how she has impacted mine and Carters life." - Amanda 2019
"My wife, Bridget, and I first met Kathy through UCSD's Hearts & Hands volunteer doula program, when we were having our first child. Bridget was admitted just after midnight and requested a volunteer doula. A few hours later, in the wee hours of the morning, Kathy arrived. It was our first time meeting Kathy but she put us immediately at ease. The calm and joy she radiated was a welcome contrast to the stress, anxiety, and worry that I was unsuccessfully trying to hide. Our baby was sitting "sunny side up," which might have prevented a natural birth, and one of the first things Kathy did was help get the baby turned around naturally with the vigorous use of a scarf. Kathy also was key in helping my wife through the natural birth (no drugs). Had I been the only support there, we are 100% certain that Bridget would have asked for drugs at some point. It's not that Kathy ever discouraged Bridget from getting the drugs--she was fully supportive of whatever choice Bridget wanted to make--but she helped Bridget work through the contractions and was able to provide Bridget all of the support she needed throughout the whole labor. Most helpfully, she was able to draw on her years of experience as a doula to give us information throughout the process to keep both of us calm. It was an extraordinarily long day, but Kathy didn't leave Bridget's side for over twelve hours. A few years later, when our second child was due to arrive, we knew there was only one doula we wanted by our side, so we hired Kathy as our private doula. It was easily the best decision we could have made. Bridget was admitted in the evening and Kathy arrived shortly after. Kathy was by Bridget's side all night (while I took a few hours to nap), and again guided Bridget through a natural birth with her calm and loving presence. If you're looking for a doula (and we 100% recommend having one for your birth if it's an option), we highly recommend getting in touch with Kathy." - Howard Wu, 2018