I remember the immediate thought that came into my mind after I saw that second pink line for the first time on my pregnancy test: How will I do this? I knew I wanted a positive birthing experience, but had no clue where to start.

My husband may have studied engineering. But dealing with female mechanics? Not so much. So I decided to hire a doula for additional support. And it was such a game-changer for us that I never gave birth again without one.

Here’s what I know as someone who has attended over 200 births and had three of her own: The way a woman gives birth can have a lasting impact on the birth story she shares, how her body heals, how close she feels to her partner during and after the birthing experience, and even the bond she forms with her new baby.

Full disclosure—it still took blood, sweat and tears. But giving birth wasn’t the screamfest I imagined it would be (thanks for that, Hollywood). I was grounded in the moment. I walked around like an Amazon queen for days. And all because an amazing birth squad had my back…and I was encouraged to give birth my way, in my own time.

This is why I founded my doula agency. So more couples can get the knowledgeable, loving and non-judgmental support they need to prepare for the positive birth experience they want.