What is a Postpartum Doula?

Doula comes from the Greek word “doulos,” which means a willing servant. A postpartum doula is someone who supports the needs of your family in the days following the arrival of your new baby. I offer care and comfort for you, your newborn, and any other family members needing attention. I can help guide you as you learn to parent and be available to answer all of your questions as they arise.

Why do I need a Postpartum Doula?

Every new family, or family iteration, can benefit from a postpartum doula! Having a new baby is a big change, it can be challenging and confusing for the existing family dynamic. In an era absent large scale community support, I will be there to assist with your newborn and ease your mind as you learn to navigate parenthood. It is my goal to encourage and empower you in your new role, give you peace of mind, and be a resource for you and your family.

What is the difference between a Postpartum Doula and a Baby/Night Nurse?

A postpartum doula can take on overnight duties, however that is far from the end of the scope of our abilities. Night nurses’ main focus is caring for baby throughout the night. Typically a night nurse arrives in the evening as the family is winding down for bed and helps with the needs of the new baby until the morning. They are typically not required to have any training, and most only address the needs of the baby. Once they’ve provided a couple of weeks of assistance, they are finished and off to their next family.

A Postpartum doula, however, can come into your home for as many days, nights, and/or weeks as you would like, and will act as a support as you adjust to life with a newborn. We are trained in the areas of breastfeeding and lactation, postpartum healing and nutrition for the birthing parent, postpartum mood disorders, newborn sleep and more. A good postpartum doula is able to care for your new family as a whole while also helping you care for your newborn. We are available to provide support where it is needed most, and will help you ease into your new family life.

How long do we work together?

Every family’s needs are different - flexibility is key here. I will work with you to come up with a custom package of care, and we can adapt on the fly if needed. We’ll work together until your family is stable and in a good place with new baby life.

I’ve heard doulas are expensive.

While I believe that birth and postpartum doulas are worth every penny, I know the realities of having a baby add up. Contact me for an initial conversation and we'll discuss how to make care for your family work financially and otherwise.