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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS A POSTPARTUM DOULA?
A postpartum doula provides non-judgmental, evidenced-based information on things such as infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, mother-baby bonding, infant soothing, and basic newborn care. Research shows that moms, dads, and babies have an easier time with this transition if a good support team is in place.
WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA PROVIDE?
The postpartum doula offers many services to her clients, but her main goals are to help “mother the mother” and nurture the entire family as they transition into life with a newborn. This would include doing things to help mom and dad feel more confident in their roles, sharing education on family adjustment, and tending to the unique needs of a new mother. The transition into new parenthood can be vulnerable, and postpartum doulas are experts in emotional support, active listening and encouraging new moms and dads to follow their own hearts. Empathy, a hug or even a good laugh together can do so much for a new parent!
WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA ACTUALLY DO?
Breast/Chest feeding support
Help with emotional support and recovery of birthing person after birth
Light housework
Breast Milk or Formula safe storage education
Bottle feeding support
Assistance with newborn care such as diapering, feeding, bathing, comforting
Preparation of snacks or light meals
Baby soothing techniques
Sibling support and care
Referrals to local services such as support groups, local pediatricians, lactation consultants and more
HOW WILL HIRING YOU AFFECT MY PARTNER’S ROLE? WHAT ABOUT THE GRANDPARENTS ROLE?
A new baby means transition for everyone, including parents, grandparents and little brothers and sisters. Postpartum doulas understand what everyone needs, and part of their role is to help the entire family adjust and settle in.
COVID-19
The organizations providing training and continuing education to doulas have released guidelines for doulas in order to support their preparedness for any situation or concerns that a family may have. All measures for precautions and safety will be discussed with each family to address specific questions and concerns.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A POSTPARTUM DOULA AND A NEWBORN CARE SPECIALIST?
While there are similarities and some services that cross-over, the newborn care specialist (NCS) is focused more on caring for the newborn--whereas, a postpartum doula is focused on assisting the postpartum birthing person.