I have been involved in the birth world since 2000. I started as a doula in Southern CA, where I attended mostly hospital births, some natural, some medicated and a couple homebirths.  I had my first natural birth under the care of a midwife in 2003.  It was such an empowering, life changing experience for me.  It was during the pregnancy of my fourth child, that I felt the call to become a midwife.

I started my clinical apprenticeship is 2005.  I was required to attend births at home, do newborn exams, perform prenatal and postpartum exams, give labor support and provide breastfeeding counseling.  In 2007, I traveled to the Philippines to finish my apprenticeship.  I spent 6 weeks there doing an intensive internship at Mercy Maternity Center, a high volume birth center, in Davao City .  While there, I handled and assisted at many births, managed labors, performed prenatal and postpartum exams.  During my time in Davao, I was able to see complications and practice procedures that we do not normally experience in homebirth.  It really helped to make me a well rounded midwife. In 2008, I returned  to serve as a volunteer.  I am so grateful to have been able to serve these women in that capacity and to have gained invaluable experience and skills.

I am certified in Adult CPR and Neonatal Resuscitation.  As part of my midwifery practice, I endeavor to update my knowledge and skills by attending regular midwifery education workshops and conferences and using current evidence within my practice. 

I believe every birthing woman has the right to empowered choices.  As a midwife, I help guide parents through pregnancy and birth, informing them about all aspects of prenatal, birth and postpartum birth care options.  Every woman is unique, as is each pregnancy.  I tailor care to meet the needs of each individual. 

As a midwife, I am honored to be an experienced assistant who is invited to be present for a great miracle - the birth of a child.

Laura Hopper, Midwife

DyAnna Gordon,

Apprentice Midwife

DyAnna Gordon started her apprenticeship with Alternative Birth Services in May of 2008.  Before joining our team, she was a busy childbirth educator and doula since the birth of her first child in 2002. 
Dy is an invaluable asset to our practice.  Not only does she attend prenatals,  births and postpartums, but she also offers childbirth education classes here in our St. George office.  Her personality and perspective compliments Laura's to provide a wonderful experience for our expectant parents.