Melissa Berg

Melissa with her kids at the pumpkin patch

As a six-year-old child, I became aware of my fascination with the birth process while looking at a copy of A Child Is Born by Linnart Nilsson.  I was awed by the beautiful photos of pregnant women and babies in utero. Since then, I have had the opportunity to personally experience childbirth with the arrival of my two beautiful children.

I  believe having a doula at my side for both of my births played a huge role in having such wonderful experiences.  It can be difficult for the partner to grasp the full purpose of a doula and may even feel like their territory has been encroached upon but I believe after the birth, most folks change their tune. Matt (my husband) has told me on several occasions how grateful he was to have a doula assist us at the birth of our children. Our doula had a button that said:” My doula was worth the moola”and Matt has often times used that quote when speaking to those considering hiring a doula.

I graduated from California State University, Humboldt in 2000 with a degree in Liberal Studies and an emphasis in Psychology, Spanish, and Art. After graduation, I spent time in Paraguay with the Peace Corps. Upon returning from the Peace Corps I resumed my studies,  attending the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, receiving my MS degree in acupuncture and herbal medicine in 2007.  During my practice as an acupuncturist, I have worked with many women on their path to parenthood and during the postpartum period. Once I decided this would be my specialty, it was an easy decision to become a licensed Doula, which I did in 2007, receiving training at Natural Resources in San Francisco. Being a Doula combines my love of the birth process and my desire to help others.

My birth philosophy is that every mother has an innate confidence and knowledge in how to best birth her child. I speak with the family at length before labor begins to determine how I can best assist. Some prefer a quiet, gentle hand while others require a more vocal advocacy. I take the time to get to know you … it is a very special gift to be with a family throughout their transition to parenthood (even if they’re seasoned pros).  I have attended over thirty births, most since becoming a certified Doula. While maintaining my private practice, I volunteer as a doula at SF General and act as a back up to the other doulas  in the collective. I truly love working with women and their families during this poignant time in their life.