Hey, hi, hello, I’m

Marissa Rae Tunstall

Doula photo headshot

I’m a birth and postpartum doula providing support, resources, and fellowship for women and their families throughout Los Angeles

I am so beyond honored to meet women where they are and aid them in creating an informed and empowered environment throughout their pregnancy, labor, and postpartum journey.

My practice is based in Ayurvedic principles of healing. I encourage internal & external warmth through nutritious and yummy foods, carefully blended teas and herbs catered to your current condition, soothing touch and massages, sitz baths and yoni steams, bellybinding, and conversations that are open, honest, and real.

  • "Marissa was an absolute pleasure to work with. She is a really calming and supportive person to invite in your birth space. She was always available when I needed her. She definitely went above and beyond for myself and my family. From an initial zoom meeting, joining me at one of my doctor’s appointments, and the many visits to my home and the hospital throughout my labour she was there when I needed her. I would recommend her over and over again."

    Elizabeth P.

  • "Marissa was such a blessing! She made my postpartum experience so much easier. I utilized her services for overnight newborn care and she was absolutely amazing with my daughter. I woke up to a fed and changed baby, and laundry and dishes done every day. It was the best decision for our family so I could focus on healing! We love Marissa you will too!"

    Morgan W.

  • "Marissa did an amazing job listening to my patient's desires and supporting her and her partner as their decisions changed throughout the day. It was such a pleasure!"

    - Nurse Ana

  • “It was such a blessing to know that we could absolutely count on Marissa to be our rock during this whole process.”

    Kelly P.

  • "Marissa was amazing, I can't recommend her enough! She was so well organized, compassionate, and knowledgeable. She knew what we needed without us even telling her. She far exceeded my expectations for a doula and we feel grateful to have met her."

    - Adrienne A.

  • "I've been working with ​Marissa throughout my pregnancy journey and she has been nothing but a light for our family during this season of change. She is so insightful and has such a caring touch. Can't recommend her enough for any mamas-to-be!"

    Lindsay B.

  • "Would highly recommend Marissa to any birthing mother!"

    - Alison B

FAQ

FAQ

  • Benefits of a birth doula

    Studies have been conducted for decades reporting the positive effects of doulas on maternal and birth outcomes. A 2017 Cochrane Review researching 15,858 expectant mothers showed that those who utilized a doula and continuous postpartum support had the following:

    • 25% decrease in the risk of cesarean

    • 8% decrease in the likelihood of a spontaneous vaginal birth

    • 10% decrease in the use of any medications for pain relief

    • Shorter labors by 41 minutes on average

    • 38% decrease in the baby’s risk of a low five-minute Apgar score

    • 31% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience

      From the moment I began actively assisting women throughout their birth journeys I’ve found truth in the statistics.

      Every woman deserves a safe and supportive space when engaging one of the most vulnerable and intimate moments of their life. I am grateful to have the privilege to assist in ensuring safety and support are present in the birth space.

    Benefits of a postpartum doula

    • Reduction in Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: Studieshave shown that postpartum doulas can help lower the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety.

    • Improved Breastfeeding Outcomes: Studies show that doulas offer critical support and education on breastfeeding, which can lead to longer breastfeeding duration and higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding.

    • Better Infant Sleep Patterns: Evidence suggests that postpartum doulas can help establish better sleep patterns for infants.

    • Increased Parental Confidence: Postpartum doulas can boost parents' confidence in their caregiving abilities. This increased confidence can be crucial in managing the demands of a newborn and in making informed decisions about infant care.

    • Lower Rates of Maternal Physical Complications: Postpartum doulas can help with physical recovery by providing guidance on managing common postpartum issues such as perineal care and cesarean section recovery.

    • Support for Family Dynamics: Postpartum doulas can aid in smoother transitions for families, including adjusting older siblings to a new baby.

  • You’ll have a fully present and knowledgeable doula as I’ve undergone extensive training and continue investing in my education to be as informed and prepared as possible. The support you’ll be given will be unbiased and evidence based. The referrals you’ll have access to have been carefully vetted and are individuals I would trust with my own pregnancy. By choosing to work with me, you’re choosing a doula who has the flexibility to meet you as soon as you begin laboring and is available 24/7 after your final prenatal appointment.

  • My sweet spot is attending births within 20 miles of my home in Playa Vista, Los Angeles whether it's at a cozy house, a bustling hospital, or a serene birth center. But, if you're convinced I'm the one for you, I'm happy to hit the road and travel even farther. Please note that some additional travel fees may apply.

  • My main (and most commonly accepted) form of payment is cash from Venmo or Zelle. I work alongside my CPA to ensure the payment is carefully allotted to ensure my business continues to thrive. Oh! And I also accept Carrot!

    Other methods can be found HERE

  • I aim to work with 2-3 birthing people every month. This allows me to be more available and offer deeper levels of support. 

Leave a review...

I’d love to hear back from you! If you enjoyed working with me, please take a minute to review your experience here.