Personal recommendations for a Philadelphia-area (Havertown, Main Line, etc.) doula?

[MrsSlocombe]

I live in Havertown, and will give birth somewhere in the general area.  I had been thinking Bryn Mawr, but am considering other options now.  Do you have a personal experience with a good doula?  (Even an experience with a bad doula is worth mentioning, in case I accidentally get set up with her somehow!)  My friend in MD was able to retain a good doula's services for $1,000, which included some prenatal visits, and I'm hoping to pay no more than this, myself, especially since we are now down to one income.

Thanks!

[mama24-7]

We used Marilyn Nolt for our 2nd & 3rd births, both homebirths (our first was a hospital birth, assisted by a medwife).  She is awesome & I can't imagine giving birth w/o her (or my midwife, Kathy Hindle).  I found her website here: http://www.supportedbeginnings.com/Supported_Beginnings/home.html and when I looked at the photos, the one on top is me!  It was after my first son was born.  It's a great picture.  And, I know one of the other women too.

Best wishes,

Sus

[MrsSlocombe]

So useful!  Thank you, Sus.  I will contact Ms. Nolt.

[HippieIncognito]

Sus! Kathy is my midwife and Marilyn is my backup doula. :) We are using Ellen Felley for a doula. This is our first baby (EDD 1/10/12) and we are planning a homebirth. I totally love Kathy.

MrsSlocombe, Ellen has been great so far. She charges $1200 but will work with you on something more affordable. She was very generous with her fee for us so don't let the starting price scare you. I have also heard of people using Well Born Baby for doulas but I don't have personal experience. I think it's an awesome idea getting a doula for your birth!

[meyouplus2]

Kathy is amazing!