Testimonials

Our journey with Erica started quite early. I first spoke to her when I was 14 weeks pregnant with our first baby, after receiving a glowing recommendation from another midwife in southern Portugal. My husband and I were new to Portugal and hoping for a home birth. More than anything, we wanted to feel safe in an unfamiliar environment and to be well informed, so we could navigate the chaotic and miraculous journey of birth with confidence. From our very first conversation, we felt at ease with Erica. She brought warmth, attentiveness, and a reassuring sense of calm that stayed with us throughout the pregnancy. She guided us through every technical and practical aspect with clarity and kindness, always making time for our questions and concerns. As the birth approached and fears naturally surfaced, Erica created a space where we could speak openly and honestly. For me, it was important to build a relationship based on mutual trust and respect rather than a traditional doctor-patient dynamic, and that developed naturally over time. She provided us with articles, videos, and evidence-based information, empowering us to make informed decisions while always keeping safety at the center of the process. She navigated my changing needs and desires with remarkable flexibility, striking a balance between honoring my autonomy and safeguarding the wellbeing of both me and my baby. During the birth itself, I felt completely supported by Erica and Margarida. They instinctively understood my need for independence and offered exactly the right support at the right moments. Because I trusted Erica’s expertise so deeply, I was able to surrender fully to the experience. A few simple, clear suggestions from her made a crucial difference in the progression of my labor. After approximately 13 hours of contractions, including four hours of active labor, our daughter was born peacefully in Erica’s birth pool. She landed gently at the bottom of the water, and as we all looked down at her, Erica calmly said, “Lift her up in one motion.” I did, and our baby opened her big black eyes and took her first breath. Following the birth, Erica patiently stitched a tear right there on our living room couch, allowing us to remain in the comfort of our home. Looking back, I can only describe her presence throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum as a blessing. Birth was the most painful, challenging, and powerful experience of my life, yet it also felt deeply right. Thank you, Erica, for your patience, generosity, and unwavering support. Thank you for being available for every question, big or small, and for sharing not only your expertise as a midwife and nurse but also your wisdom as a mother. Your clarity, attention to detail, and thoughtful communication gave us confidence as we welcomed our first child in a new country. Thank you also for your flexibility and your attentiveness to my wishes, as well as for not compromising on safety. Birth is difficult and painful, but with your support we truly had the birth of our dreams. It was the most empowering experience of my life—one that reminds me of my own strength and of the extraordinary beautiful network of women supporting women.