Jun-Nicole Matsushita Doula Profile

My husband and I were very satisfied with Jun-Nicole's work as a doula and would recommend her to any expectant family. She went above and beyond what we were originally looking for (support during labor) and we realize now how valuable it was to have her prenatal consultations, presence immediately after birth, photography, and postnatal meeting. Even though I had already experienced a great natural birth with my first baby, I was nervous about being in a different (much larger) hospital and anticipating a much quicker labor. Her prenatal consultations and especially her experience with the specific hospital that I was using really set my mind at ease during the weeks leading up to the birth. I was also comforted by the fact that she was committed to staying with us even if we did end up with interventions. During the labor I really liked her calm presence, strong but gentle touch, and encouraging words. When we first arrived at the hospital there wasn't a room ready for us and she helped create a peaceful environment in the hallway while continuing to advocate for us with the hospital staff. This is the kind of unexpected event that really makes me happy that I had a doula. I can't say enough how much I appreciate the support Jun-Nicole gave us.

My experience was very positive and I would gladly ask her to be my doula again. She worked very well with the staff at the Univ. of IA hospital. Her approach with me was calm, diplomatic, and focused on presenting options so that my husband and I could make the choices and decisions that suited us best. She backs up your choices completely, but also understands and accepts the need for interventions under certain circumstances (in my case, a c-section). My husband and I were completely comfortable having her at my labor.

Prior to the birth we met twice for extensive discussion. She called periodically to check on things as well. She responded quickly and very completely to any questions I had throughout my pregnancy. Her recommendations were spot-on and very useful. She knows the resources of this area very well and is well-equipped to answer any kind of question.

I think she is an excellent teacher - her instructions for breastfeeding and sling wearing (she provides clients with a sling for use during labor and to carry the baby afterwards) were clear and concise and she provided immediate, constructive feedback so that I could understand the principles and improve how I was doing things. My husband found her to be invaluable in guiding him during and after my labor so that he could support me in the best way possible, and he in turn felt much more confident being there. We both agree that her guidance was well worth it at all stages of the pregnancy, birth, and post-partum period.

I also really loved having video and images of my son's birth and first breastfeeding. She provides you with a CD of these at the postpartum visit. Simply irreplaceable, and something my family and I will always cherish.

After a traumatic birth experience with our first child, my husband and I decided we needed more support during the birth of our second child.  We met with Jun-Nicole and knew right away that she would be a good fit for us.  I was impressed by her knowledge, confidence, and non-judgemental approach.  During my pregnancy, I thought that the meetings we had with Jun-Nicole were especially helpful in getting answers to questions, exploring our wants/needs from this birth experience, and gaining resources to help us through the process.  I especially appreciated the she took the time to get to know my husband and I as individuals and as a couple so that she could tailor her assistance during the birth of our child. 

During the birth, which we were hoping would be a VBAC, Jun-Nicole was a calm presence.  She is confident in her knowledge and so you are able to feel at ease when she is watching out for you during a time when you feel so vulnerable.  She has a special ability to advocate without overpowering or ruffling the feathers of the doctors and staff present.  She worked in concert with our doctors and nurse very well and they were so impressed they requested her buisness card!  She was able to help with positioning when my pushing process was stalled, as well as when the baby seemed malpostioned and like he would be unable to come vaginally.  I truly believe that without her help, I would not have been able to experience a vaginal birth and doing so was very important to me for many reasons.  The birth experience with our second child was amazing and renewed my belief in my body and allowed me to heal from the trauma of my first birth experience. 

I always knew I wanted a doula and a no-to-low intervention birth.  When my partner and I first met Jun-Nicole we were impressed with her knowledge base and professionalism.  As my pregnancy moved along we were also amazed by her care and attention. When my due date approached I ended up having some health problems and was admitted to the hospital she was the second person I called.  She was so helpful and helped calm my nerves so much.  Looking back on the situation I can't imagine anything different everything was perfect.  We couldn't have done it with out her.  Her calm supportive energy was like a light for our family through a very dark tunnel.  She allowed my partner and I to sink down into the experience, so when things came up neither my partner or I had to try and recall something we had read three months ago.  She was there with the knowledge and the energy to keep us focused moving forward. It was so beautiful.  After the birth she was also very helpful with postpartum support, whether it was breastfeeding support or simple baby care she was always there to answer my phone calls and emails with resources and answers for my family.  If we get the chance to have another child, I know she will be one of the first people I call. I am so grateful for her services.