About Alana

My first several babies were born in the conventional system. While my hospital deliveries were not traumatic, they did include some unnecessary procedures and uncomfortable postpartum stays. I had heard about home birth but didn’t know where to access midwifery care until, carrying my fourth child, I found a home birth practice and excitedly planned my first out of hospital birth. I loved the care I received , which was so fundamentally different from the obstetrical model, and I became a vocal home birth cheerleader. I went on to have 8 babies at home, surrounded by knowledgeable, like-minded, loving friends and midwives. These blessings gave me a heart for other women to have more joyous birthing experiences.

I studied midwifery and birth casually until my family was mostly raised. When I no longer had young children I was given the opportunity to go more fully into birthwork, serving as an assistant for home births, and certifying as a labor doula, postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, and bereavement doula.  My assisting turned into apprenticeship and I was very blessed to get to serve with a number of amazing mentors.  Eventually I finished all needed clinicals, sat for the comprehensive exam and qualified as a CPM and Licensed Midwife.

I’m a DC area native, and have been at various times a farmer, milk maid, gardener, quilter, baker, and Scottish country dancer.  My family is precious to me, and many of the photos you see on these pages are of my beautiful grandchildren (14 so far!)