Birth Testimonials
Amy, Neils and baby Marni
Having my first baby during a pandemic, in a foreign country where I don’t speak the language, was quite a scary prospect as I reached the end of my second trimester...until I met Shanay. She finally gave my husband and I the feeling we were in safe hands. Day or night, Shanay was someone we could rely on to help us make informed decisions about the birth, support us with questions or concerns we had and most importantly to enable us to create the loving, nurturing and safe atmosphere in which we brought our baby into the world. We feel so lucky that we were able to have Shanay’s support; her calm, kind approach together with her vast experience and knowledge was invaluable.
Kartini & Simon
After having Shanay attend the birth of my first child, there was no doubt in my mind when I was pregnant with my second, that I not only wanted, but needed her to be there for my second home birth. Her reassurance, light presence, loving and familiar touch was so vital in those wild hours. She supported all of us beautifully - myself, my partner, my midwife, and of course the new addition, during birth, and in the days that followed. Shanay's nourishing meals, oils, arms for carrying the baby or massaging me, but most importantly her knowledge and warmth gave us strength. You will always be such an intimate part of our family Shanay. Thank you for all that you do.
Aga, Travis & baby Henry
We knew we wanted to work with Shanay the first time we spoke with her -- she has a very calming and reassuring presence. We were new to Berlin and it was our first baby, so we wanted to be able to have a sense of continuity during the pregnancy through the birth. She helped us understand what kind of birth we wanted, and what kind of things might happen and how to deal with them, since of course things like this don’t usually go exactly to plan. That was especially true for us: when we got to the hospital, at the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak, we were told only one birth partner was allowed, so Shanay couldn’t enter... So so stressful! We had a chat and she did everything she could to prepare us and was constantly available via phone/text, which reassured us in those difficult moments (the induction was initially not going very well). Later, after a long labor, the hospital changed their mind and Shanay was allowed to come in - which was such a relief! She came promptly and helped us through the last 8 hours or so of a natural birth. From the moment of her arrival, things finally started developing more smoothly, contractions became more regular and the dilation started advancing. It was a long and difficult labour with a happy ending and Shanay’s presence certainly played a crucial role. Shanay gave us so much throughout the whole process - from massage and oils and reassurance during the delivery to practical tips and baby product advice before and after the birth. Thanks so much, Shanay!
Maya
I can recommend Shanay from the bottom of my heart! I met with a few doulas prior to making a decision on which one I want, and with Shanay it just felt right. She was so nice and warm and relatable, but at the same time seemed very professional. We met a few times prior to the birth - she didn't put a dead set number on the amount of times we would meet, which is what I really liked and left me feeling confident - she said it is according to what the couple need. At the birth itself she made such great team with my husband! She let him be there for me and let us go through this experience together, but at the same time was always there when I needed her with her gentle touch. My birth did not exactly turn out like i planned and a bunch of decisions had to made on the way, some mine and some not up to me - if Shanay wasn't there to reassure me that everything was ok and what was going to happen, had to happen, I think I would have come out traumatized from the birth. I might have also had a c-section, which im glad i didnt. (my baby had to be extracted by vaccuum in the end). What also was very helpful was talking about the birth with her after and processing everythig that's haplened. Also her placenta encapsulation is great! I really recommend taking a doula, especially if it's your first time giving birth, and Shanay couldn't be a better choice!
Graciela & Moritz
Despite our preference for a natural birth, a lot of medical intervention became inevitable throughout the course of a long and difficult day. Many difficult decisions had to be taken, the biggest being to do a C section. It was a very challenging day for me and my family, my husband in the delivery room and my parents and in laws waiting outside. Shanay was so helpful to all of us. She was a constant source of much needed calm and composure, she had a Mary Poppins bag with lots of little aids, always willing to try a new thing to help me through the pain. She was lovely to my family, she kept them informed and helped them stay calm as well. Most importantly, she was key in helping us take the tough decisions we faced during the day, it would've been even harder without her. It was a relief having her with us. We are forever grateful.
Melecia, Tom & Baby Grace
When I found out that I was pregnant with my second child, I knew that I wanted to have a VBAC. I also knew that I needed a strong team behind me during Labour. The first time I met Shanay I could tell immediately that her energy was what I was looking for. We met a few times before the birth and i was impressed with her calm demeanor. She made me feel that I didn’t have to worry about the delivery. That all will be well and that I should trust myself. I didn’t know what to expect in the delivery room from Shanay and I am happy I just allowed her to work her magic. I would have never expected in my wildest dreams that this small bodied woman with such delicate hands could massage me throughout the entire Labour! She helped me get through all the veins! I remember after a few hours wondering if her hands were tired. Shanay knew exactly when I needed something to drink or something sweet. She brought soothing music which she played at the perfect volume. She remembered my wish to have the CTG machine volume turned off so it wouldn’t distract me. She created a wonderful atmosphere in the room which I think is essential for giving birth. She was by my side like a friend, like a mother. My husband said he is very grateful that she was there because he could conserve his energy and use it for the point where it mattered the most. It was a great relief that she constantly provided us with Evidence based research on topics that were of concern for us. For example, ‘The percentage of scars that actually rupture during delivery after a previous Caesarean’ and fetal monitoring’ which was an issue during my first birth. She also gave us tips on how to speak to the Doctors if they suggested a repeat Caesarean Section. I used these questions she told me to ask when that very conversation arose. In the end, I was given more time and I had a natural birth without epidural. I am eternally grateful to Shanay for believing in me. Thank you for doing such an amazing job in helping me to have a wonderful birth experience.
Laura, Sebastrian & baby William
I don’t know what I would have done without Shanay. At the beginning of my pregnancy I had a plan. How my pregnancy and birth would be, but my baby had different ideas and early on we got a difficult diagnosis for the baby. Shanay was like my guardian angel in Berlin. She kept me sane. She reminded me of the good aspects of the pregnancy. Before every important appointment she offered to come with me. After every appointment she would check up. She helped me accept the new situation, she researched everything I wanted to know when I couldn’t find the strength to ask myself or google, she helped me hope, she gave me strength, she helped me fight for what I wanted, what I felt was right for us. Then when it came time to give birth she was there. She supported me, she supported my husband. She had such a calming presence, and new what I needed before I did, she helped my husband help me and stay present, together they were my dream team. Shanay was absolutely invaluable. Before we got pregnant my husband asked me why we needed a doula, now he is telling all his friends and family how great our doula was and how everyone needs a doula. I agree, a doula is the best thing we invested in for the entire journey.
Lina, Are, big sister Emma & baby Markus
I just want to extend my gratitude to Shanay for helping me thru labour last December. She lead and assure me that in the end I got the birth I wanted (VBAC) - all medication free!!. I was very doubtful at first considering the complication on my first birth but Shanay was there all the way guiding, supporting and assuring me that my body is capable. She is patient, calm, and sincere. I also got quickly back on my feet after birth with the help of placenta pills in which Shanay made for me, it really worked!. I would recommend it regardless of what scientific tests say, I'm proof that it's a miracle. We are forever grateful, love you Shanay.
Baby Ria
Having Shanay as our Doula to support our home birth was an excellent decision! She arrived at our home in the morning and immediately calmed any doubts we had about labor and the upcoming birth. Shanay seemed to be at the right place just when I needed her, with water (and a straw!), massages, suggestions and encouraging words. She really helped my partner find his place in the birthing process and worked seamlessly with the midwives. Her calm, positive and constant presence was essential in taking us through the long adventure of birthing, with all its twists and turns, and I so appreciate her keeping curious family members well informed throughout the day. I recommend Shanay as a birth companion wholeheartedly.
Pauline, Andrew & baby Seamus
As soon as I met Shanay I knew I wanted her on my team! I especially liked how knowledgeable she was with regards to the importance of baby‘s positioning in the pelvis, and how to influence it. Shanay assured me every step of the way towards my VBAC, helped me believe in myself and trust my body. When doubt crept in she was there immediately with an evidence-based article to keep fear out. When labour began I felt a bit scared and shaky. It was such a relief to be able to contact Shanay, and know that she would be with me immediately when I needed her. She was like my guardian angel as I laboured in my bedroom, watching over me, comforting me, reassuring me, knowing exactly the right time to go to the hospital. Above all, she made me feel safe. I am so grateful to you, Shanay, for helping me find my full power and strength, and for giving me the confidence to release it at the right time, allowing me to birth my beautiful baby just as I had dreamed.
Elmi
Shanay was a real find. I gravitated towards her positive vibe and empowering words about birth and instantly felt connected. She was calm, reassuring, knowledgeable beyond her years and very personable. After helping us prepare for the birth (and being on call at all times), I felt I was in safe hands and felt more confident as she guided us along with positive images of birth. She was with us, supportive, calming and a tower of strength through a long, difficult labour. To do that takes patience and stamina. We are grateful beyond words for how she helped us. Thank you Shanay, you're amazing and we couldn't have done it without you.
New Dad Leon
Shanay is a wonderful doula who was instrumental in helping us welcome our first baby. She came over to our house to help answer our questions, demonstrate useful techniques for positioning the body during pregnancy and birth, and share valuable advice and information. Shanay was unfailingly kind, professional, and knowledgeable. We felt more secure and ready during the birth process due to her warm presence and experience. We were very fortunate to have benefitted from Shanay's doula support.
Aela, Lukas & baby Ava
I was lucky enough to have a water birth in hospital and Shanay was a large part of the reason that everything went so well. This was my first child and it was vital that I was able to relax and jump into the unknown. From the moment I met Shanay early in my pregnancy, I felt that she was someone I could trust. She helped me to visualise positive birth experiences and was always there throughout the pregnancy when I had questions or concerns, no matter what the hour. Most importantly, she was able to advise my husband on how to be the very best birthing partner he could be. Her advice was always spot-on. When people ask why I needed a doula, I tell them that Shanay gave me confidence to let my body do what it needed to. She was like a birth coach: there 100% for me. While a midwife and doctor focusses on the baby, she was there to encourage, support and massage me for hours during contractions! Shanay is a wonderful person and highly empathetic and professional doula. She will make all the difference to help you achieve the birth you want!
Fiona & baby Jules
It was a huge relief to have Shanay by our side during pregnancy and birth of our son. From the moment she stepped into our home, we knew we wanted to have her as part of our team. Every meeting and message with Shanay provided us with invaluable insight, evidenced-based advice, warm and genuine care and lots of laughs too. It made both of us feel totally at ease during the pregnancy and birthing process and super excited to meet our baby. Even when late pregnancy was faced with challenges, Shanay stepped in at every moment to support and hold space for us as a family. She never forgot to check in before and after every important appointment and she worked harmoniously with our birth intentions as well as with doctors and midwives. Having Shanay with us during birth grounded us during the more stressful moments and the value of comfort and care she gave both of us before, during and after the birth will never be forgotten. I am so pleased to be able to look back on my pregnancy, birth and postpartum time as the most special and transformative period in my life and I am grateful to have Marc and Shanay’s support each step of the way. I would enthusiastically recommend Shanay to anyone who is thinking about hiring a doula in Berlin.
Marc (dad) - Shanay has been such a helpful and calming force during times when excitement changed to uncertainty and back hundreds of times per day! Her warmth, humour and professional knowledge are a cherished part of preparation for fatherhood, which I draw upon to this very day.
Tabea, Simon & baby PhoEnix
Shanay was THE BEST decision Simon and I made for our birthing plan. She was such a rock throughout the whole experience and came so prepared that we felt in such safe hands. Because of Shanay being there and helping me and my husband with her knowledge and support throughout every stage of labour, we experienced the birth of our son Phoenix in the most natural and beautiful way possible.
Tasya, Jamie & baby Max
For me, as for young first-time expat mom, Shanay's support was invaluable. Her presence during my birth made me feel safe and comfortable so I was able to fully relax my body and mind go through the labor naturally without outer hospital distractions. This feeling of safety and gentle care provided by Shanay turned my birth experience into a beautiful journey and my baby came to the world in a pleasant untroubled atmosphere. And I am very grateful for this all natural and calm way my baby was born. Priceless... I do always think about my birth experience with great warmth in my heart!! Thanks to you!
Rotem, Florian & Caspar von Oppenheim
I met Shanay when I was about 6 months pregnant, not knowing what a doula really is, but knowing that I would like to have one when giving birth. Shanay’s radiant and calm personality, made me instantly feel that she was the right pick. On the day of birth, she was available to guide us over the phone through the contractions, and helped us prolong our departure to the hospital as much as possible. As soon as we arrived at the hospital she was totally hands on, she really shines on the job. Shanay spent a few hours massaging my aching back, lighting candles and making the hospital delivery room feel like a clam and safe place, making me feel more comfortable and relaxed, and making my husband feel more at ease. When the time came, we had some complications, and the doctor advised a C-section, Shanay was there to help us consider our options. Our son, Caspar, was born in a vacuum extraction, with me almost totally sedated. It wasn’t my dream scenario, but I am happy we were able to avoid a C-section. Shanay stayed with us for a few more hours after birth, making sure I am doing ok and getting enough rest. She also made pills out of my placenta, which were definitely a much needed source of energy in the first few months after giving birth. I am so greatful for having Shanay with us on that special day.
Upneet Neetu & baby Umrao Cairo Cobra
Part 1 - As a 37 year old first time and single mom in a foreign land, I foolishly thought that birthing, though difficult and painful, would be more than manageable between just me and some midwives. (Spoiler alert!: I was wrong.) Then my mom called. She too wanted to be a part of her first grandchild's birth. I graciously allowed it, all the while knowing that being in my mother's presence for more than 1 hour is enough to remind me why I put an ocean between us. A few months into my pregnancy, Shanay appeared out of thin magical air. My generous and thoughtful friends had called upon Shanay's services, knowing I had no real birth partner. If you haven't met Shanay you might be in for a surprise. She is a decade younger than you. (Well, me anyway.) And chipper and friendly as all heck. Oh no ! I thought, (calling upon thousands of Hollywood scenes of giving birth.), she's tiny ! I will break her, or hurt her, or ruin her modelling career ! I'll run her off ! Or my mom will!
Part 2 - (The part where I was wrong): From the second I contacted her about the contractions starting, Shanay took the reigns as though she had done it her whole entire life. Her strength, her calmness, and her confidence not only got me through a 24 hour drug-free labour, but it also kept my worried and frantic mom in check with occasional pep talks or stern talkings-to...whichever the occasion called for. I can honestly say THERE IS NO WAY I would have had the beautiful birth I had, if she had not been there to talk me through it and keep me calm. From massages that helped so much with the pain, to trying different positions or breathing techniques, to using up her own data on her cell so I could listen to some Nina Simone, she was more than a force to be reckoned with. I've never felt so lucky to have someone by my side. Thank you, thank you, thank you Shanay, for helping me bring my little boy into this world. You are very much a wonder and so much appreciated by me, my son, and everyone else that was there to see you work your magic. Also, I don't think any woman has laughed as hard immediately after giving birth as I did.
Vivian & baby Maya
I don’t think I realised how valuable Shanay’s help was until I was in labor. She paid a lot of attention to what I needed and understood what that was even if at the time I was not able to express it with words. Her calm voice and empathy helped me walk the long corridors until the delivery room (labored at home almost until the baby came:). This was an invaluable help. She also made sure our wishes were understood by the hospital doctors and as much as possible followed through. And so our little one was born end of October in a big hospital without any major issues. After we were allowed to go home, in the middle of the night we went through quite a big crisis with our little one and so I have contacted Shanay. She came through for us and offered great advise we may not have gotten anywhere else in time (we were very new to Berlin, did not speak German, our midwife was not reachable after 8pm and on top first time parents). We had a great birth experience and support afterwards. Thank you Shanay!
Shhweta
I spent months searching for a doula before I came across Shanay. She arranged an intro call while she was in Australia with her family. Meanwhile our baby was diagnosed with cleft lip and palate.Honestly I was very disturbed after this diagnosis but Shanay was so attentive and informative that she found the contact details of cleft Hebamme / nutritionist for me. At this point we hadn’t even signed a contract yet. On the day my water broke she was at my home to pick me up by 7.30am with tools to ease my pain and more. Ready to go even though was a early start. she did everything. I had to have a emergency c section and shanay was there with me answering alley questions and massaging m head during the surgery. Her impact was felt and I was able to accept the new birth plan which I never was prepared for (since first baby was vaginal) was then I realised choosing shanay was the best decision I made for my second baby. I felt very positive an thankful for shanay. There Is pain and joy when you give birth hense there should always be someone you share those moments and I would recommend Shanay for a positive birth experience.
Chi & baby Maggie
I wanted someone who could help navigate my second home birth, but this time in a foreign country. As soon as I met Shanay I knew she would be my doula. She had such a lovely gentle aura, she instantly put me at ease, and was a hit with my eldest daughter. so it was a big yes from the whole family. Not only was she always just a txt away or phone call away throughout my pregnancy ,nothing was too much for her. I felt like she was constantly walking by my side. I felt seen, heard and respected. When labour kicked off, she was there in a flash and held space for myself, my partner and our 4.5 year old to birth our baby at home. In the weeks after, it was always a pleasure to have Shanay visit, bringing treats, reassurance and warmth. So grateful we have met.
Inga
Shanay was our doula for our 2nd baby and I am so glad we had her support during my pregnancy and the birth. She is such a beautiful person, so generous and always so gentle with her approach. I truly felt we were a team with my husband and her. She always made me feel at ease and I knew she would always have my back. She has such an amazing wealth of knowledge, and you truly feel that she cares deeply about women and families.