The Role of a Postpartum Doula: What to Expect and Why You Need One
You’ve finally made it home with your little bundle of joy, congratulations! While postpartum is full of smiles, laughs (thank you, oxytocin!) and plenty of cooing from baby, it can bring about significant physical, emotional and practical challenges for first-time and seasoned parents alike. With a postpartum doula, you can guarantee your growing family receives the guidance, care and assistance you deserve during this transformative time. Keep reading to find out more about the role of a postpartum doula, what to expect when hiring one and just why their services are so vital.
1. So, what is a Postpartum Doula?
Postpartum doulas are professionals trained in providing non-medical support to families during the postpartum period which can range anywhere from the first few weeks to several months after birth. They are skilled at providing emotional, physical and information support that enables parents to smoothly adjust to their new roles while providing high-quality care for their newborns (American Pregnancy Association).
2. Emotional Support and Guidance
We know all to well how tough pregnancy and labor can be and postpartum is no exception. Postpartum doulas can help calm fears and alleviate worry by offering a nurturing presence and emotional support. They help parents process their feeling while providing reassurance and offering a listening ear or shoulder to cry on (because let’s be honest there will be tears). They truly understand the hormone-fueled emotional rollercoaster that parents are riding and can provide guidance regarding postpartum mood disorders, further normalizing the range of emotions that come along with postpartum (Postpartum Support International).
3. Practical Assistance
You’ve got your hands full with a precious new baby who needs your care while you focus on your recovery and all the while life is still moving around you. In walks your postpartum doula who can assist with practical tasks like newborn care education, breastfeeding and lactation support (learn more here) as well as offering self-care support for the birthing parent. While you nuzzle with your little one, they are able to help with light household chores, meal prep and running errands which frees up your time to focus on recovery and bonding with your new little one (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists).
4. Newborn Care Education
Postpartum doulas aren’t just amazing at providing care to birthing parents, they possess a wealth of knowledge related to newborn care. They can assist in teaching parents essential skills such as diapering, bathing and soothing techniques for baby. Lastly, because postpartum doulas are able to recognize normal newborn behavior this means a little less worry for parents.
5. Breastfeeding Support
As intuitive as breastfeeding may seem for baby and the birthing parent, it’s not always a walk in the park and that’s exceedingly normal. Postpartum doulas play a critical role in helping parents establish successful feeding in a holistic way. They offer guidance, education and even hands-on assistance with latching, positioning and overcoming breastfeeding challenges. Not only does this type of support boost confidence, it also can increase breastfeeding success rates (Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine).
Conclusion: Hiring a postpartum doula for your family makes a significant difference in the postpartum experience for new & seasoned parents. Their expertise, combined with their help with practical tasks and emotional support empowers parents to confidently navigate the postpartum stage while maintaining their peace of mind. From breastfeeding to newborn care education, their presence is truly invaluable. Consider booking with Divinity Doula Postpartum Care to ensure the care and support you need and deserve during one of the most transformative times for your family.
Sources:
• American Pregnancy Association. "Postpartum Doula: The First Weeks After Birth." Retrieved from: https://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/ postpartum-doula/
• Postpartum Support International. "What is a Postpartum Doula?" Retrieved from: https://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/what-is-a-postpartum-doula/
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. "Postpartum Care." Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/postpartum-care
• Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. "ABM Clinical Protocol #26: Persistent Pain with Breastfeeding." Retrieved from: https://abm.memberclicks.net/assets/ DOCUMENTS/PROTOCOLS/26-persistent-pain-protocol-english.pdf
• American Academy of Pediatrics. "Choosing a Pediatrician." Retrieved from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/health-management/pediatricspecialists/Pages/Choosing-a-Pediatrician.aspx
