"Like many soon-to-be parents, we initially sought care with a highly-recommended OBGYN. While we were satisfied with the care she provided, we were left to gather most information from the books. Appointments were rarely longer than 10 minutes and if we did not bring a list of questions, less. It was not until my second trimester when my Prenatal Yoga instructor lent me The Business of Being Born that we began to seriously question the “traditional” idea of hospital birth. Little did we know that these questions would lead us to choose an amazing, intimate and gentle birth experience. And never could we have imagined a better birth attendant than Mary Langlois.

We knew from the first visit with Mary that she was whom we wanted to help us birth our baby boy. She spent more than an hour with us (which she would continue to do each and every appointment) and really got to know us as a family. She showed us a video of a birth she had attended. I cried. It was not what I had imagined labor to be…quiet, intimate, peaceful and gentle. I knew that was how I wanted to bring my baby into the world, without drugs or medical intervention unless absolutely necessary. Mary assured us that I would be “birthing” my baby, rather than her “delivering” it. I felt empowered and confident that I was already choosing what was best for my child. I was right.

For some time we saw both the OB and Mary. The difference was clear and almost ridiculous. Not only did Mary make all the same assessments, but much more thoroughly. I did not need a list of questions with Mary (although I was free to bring them), as she brought-up important topics and made sure that we understood each part of the pregnancy. Unlike the doctor, Mary identified some key nutritional elements that I was lacking. She cared about my diet, my exercise and whether I got swollen ankles (which I did not, thanks to her suggestions). She treated our pregnancy as unique and important; I was not just another patient.

Mary made sure that we were well-prepared for our birthing day and when it came, she was there to gently guide us – a strong and subtle presence. While she was constantly aware of the baby’s condition, she did not disturb my progression or my focus. Within six hours, our 9 lb, 15 oz, son arrived in perfect health and without complications. Not only did Mary tenderly examine and care for our baby, but she made sure I was comfortable and safe and that the room was neat and clean. With her coaching, he latched to my breast right away, as she gave me priceless tips for breastfeeding. He did not leave my arms for even five minutes, nor was he subject to any unnecessary poking or prodding! In the end, we were three…in the privacy of our own home after our intimate, peaceful and gentle birth.

When we are ready for a second child, we can only hope that Mary will be there to watch over and attend our birth! Thank you, Mary, God blessed us with you!"

Jessica & Guille

 

"Even before we found out that we were expecting, I had dreamed of giving birth in the water. When we knew we were expecting, we researched every possible facility, saw two OB/GYN’s and never felt comfortable, until we met Mary.

Mary was everything we wanted and more! The prenatal care was so much more thorough than any doctor I have visited. Her professionalism and knowledge eased our many concerns, especially since we lacked support from our families. Each visit whether an hour or two, I felt like I was visiting a friend. She listened, wanting our opinions of the awesome informational videos, answered all of our questions and gave her honest and nurturing advice.  

The pregnancy was a bit abnormal since I have a genetic blood condition and my child had a birth defect, club feet. However, Mary did everything in her power to help us through. She did extra research, ran extra tests, and referred me to specialists about my blood condition. Mary assured us not to think about the birth defect, was more determined than ever to have a gentle birth for this baby, and was going to “kiss his feet” when he arrived!

The delivery was difficult and complications arose. But Mary’s gentle advice took the edge off intense moments. Her encouraging words helped my doubts of not being strong enough. Her professionalism and quick thinking got us through the complications and our son was born.

After the first moment of holding Aidan immediately after his birth, I knew that if he was born in a hospital they would have whisked him away. This is why I am so grateful that Mary was able to assist us in the birth of our son.    

Everyone always says that Aidan is such a happy boy and I attribute most of that to our birthing experience. Thank you so much Mary!"

Tiffany

 

"Fear of giving birth was my main reason for not wanting children. Our absolutely wonderful and amazing birth experience with Mary has changed that.

When I hit 35 I felt it was now or never. The first 6 1/2 months of my pregnancy I was convinced I would birth at a hospital with all the pain medication available. During our hypnobirthing class I realized that women are made to and meant to give birth - it is a natural process. After only our second hypnobirthing session, and a visit to our OBGYN where we tried to discuss our birth plan, we realized that a birth in a hospital was no longer an option for us and our baby. We also realized what we needed and hoped for for a great birth experience - love, compassion, nurturing and a feeling of being cared for and of feeling safe - Mary has them all.  

With only 10 weeks to go we met Mary and immediately knew that homebirth was the right choice for us and that Mary would be the one to deliver our son.

The minute you meet Mary you realize she is special - she is caring, nurturing and very professional. She will always give you options and let you decide what's best. She is always there for you and for any questions you may have - medical or emotional. And she will make you feel very much taken care of and safe.  

Our son Lukas's birth was the most profound and empowering experience of my life. And we thank Mary for that. In spite of the back labor and Lukas's not optimal position he was born a healthy 8 lbs 21 inch baby within only 13 hours. There was never a time during the intense part of the birth that I felt scared. The thought of too much pain never crossed my mind. Mary's calm and professional presence and her coaching made me feel nurtured and safe. She knew exactly what Lukas needed to transition into this world safely. We believe she had a connection with Lukas before he was here. After he was born she made sure Lukas and I were doing well and then made sure we got family bonding time. Our positive birth experience was more than we had hoped for! 

Mary always took so much time with us - before and after the birth during her follow-up visits. She will make sure you and your baby have all you need in terms of nutrition, physical and mental health.  

We are ready for our next child. And we are so looking forward to be under Mary's care for the whole nine months and beyond.

Mary, thank you for all you have done - we are so honored and blessed to have met you!" 

Love,
Ann, Manfred & Lukas