What clients say
Alex gave me the confidence in my decisions and in my bodies ability to birth my baby in the way I wanted. Although this was my 3rd baby I had been shaken by the constant undermining of the maternity system as at 41 I was considered too high risk to have a baby naturally in the birth centre. Alex helped me to navigate the constant questions, tests, scans etc during my pregnancy in such a way that I felt informed and safe in the knowledge I was doing the right thing for my baby and myself. At the birth Alex was a pilar of strength. She was calm, reassuring and kind throughout. Also the massages she gave me during the birth of our little girl were literally drug free pain relief. I cannot thank or recommend her enough.
At 12:10am on the 26th December I went into spontaneous labour at home in Cheltenham and on the 27th at 8.01am I had a healthy baby girl in Gloucester hospital.... my pregnancy journey was empowered, profound and a time of deep learning, all of this was facilitated, supported and encouraged by the great work and friendship of Alex Burner. As more and more women are now seeking the aid of birth support workers outside of traditional midwifes I think Alex absolutely positions herself as an educated, informed and passionate doula. My partner and I had a number of antenatal sessions with her at our home, the vibe was always professional, friendly and deeply informative and each session left us feeling elated and confident in all that was ahead. Working with a doula is such a uniquely personal experience but from the moment we had our initial conversation I realised this woman had SO much to offer us in terms of expertise ( she is a mother of several) and offers a 360 approach to birth, labour and aftercare. I personally like the way she encouraged us to explore ideas and concepts within the birthing world with diligence and curiosity, to challenge ' norms' and as a result make decisions that felt right for us.
The labour itself began at our home and I progressed well with her knowledge and guidance. Due to the local midwife staffing situation and my preference to also have midwife support in addition to Alex, we transferred to Gloucester Birth Unit midway through labour with Alex and continued the journey there.
NB From the perspective of Olivias partner (male) Alex supported my engagement with the pregnancy and helped me to further understand my birthing role which was invaluable during the birth. I personally believe that the role of the doula provides continuity for both partners in birth and enabled a familiarity in what can be an overwhelming experience for male partners.
From us both a heartfelt thank you and we are proud to have to of been able to include you in our birth story.