Postpartum Doula Care
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Derived from an ancient Greek word describing a woman who helps other
women, the word ‘doula’ has now come to mean a woman who supports
other women through birth and beyond.
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Postpartum doulas have the
special role of mothering the new mother after the birth of her baby,
whereas Birth Doulas assist women throughout
pregnancy and childbirth.
Postpartum doulas
are skilled and knowledgeable about the care and development of
infants as well as maternal recovery and adjustment. We provide
non-judgemental guidance on newborn care and feeding, assist the mother
with physical and emotional recovery, care for baby so mother can care
for herself, and provide practical household assistance.
Benefits of Postpartum Doula Care:
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Increases success of breastfeeding
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Facilitates parent-infant bonding
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Decreases incidence of postpartum depression
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Encourages appropriate well-baby and mother care
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Increases parents’ confidence in their parenting
skills
Source:
Nurturing Beginnings, by Debra Pascali-Bonaro
Postpartum doulas do not provide medical services or treatments for
mother or baby, nor do we provide heavy housekeeping. Postpartum
doulas support whatever parenting style you choose. We assist you with
your needs making it easier for you to parent your new baby.
How is a Postpartum Doula different from a nanny?
Whereas a nanny cares only for your children, a
postpartum doula cares for both mom and baby in the tender and
sometimes trying time following birth. This means that along with
helping you become the best parents for your baby, your doula is also
knowledgeable about a mother’s special needs in the postpartum period
and is able to facilitate a smooth emotional and physical transition
to motherhood. As well, postpartum doulas are trained in the art of
breastfeeding and provide the help or encouragement you need.
Are Postpartum Doulas only for when I go out?
Although parents certainly have the option of
leaving the baby with the doula, the bulk of our care is generally
when the parents are at home. This allows new parents needed sleep,
time alone as a couple, or even just an uninterrupted soak in the
bathtub. During this time your doula’s focus is on caring for your
baby. If baby is sleeping or at mother’s breast, your doula’s focus
is on the new mother’s needs. She provides light meals and
housekeeping, is mindful of mother’s physical needs, and offers a
friendly ear.
When does a Postpartum Doula work?
Postpartum doula care should be started within 3 months of the
birth, but the sooner the better. We generally spend 2-4 days a week
with your family for a minimum of 3 hours. We have worked with
families for anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months and more. With enough
notice we can accommodate most scheduling requests, and overnights are
available for an additional fee.
Gift Certificates are available in any denomination or for any of our
services. Contact us for more
information. |
