Caring for families in the fourth trimester.

“Coming into the home during the fourth trimester following birth, the doula’s role is to provide education, nonjudgmental support and companionship; and to assist with newborn care and family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tasks. Postpartum doulas offer evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and can make appropriate referrals when necessary.”  Taken from DONA International position paper

I get asked this question a lot! A Postpartum Doula is trained to care for the entire family. They are trained in all aspects of infant care, soothing, feeding, and sleep. In addition to this, they are trained in parental adjustment, sibling adjustment, and to recognize parental and family needs. Generally, the Postpartum Doula has more of a nurturing and guiding role, allowing parents to adjust to having a new baby at their own pace and with confidence. A Newborn Care Specialist or nanny is trained in all aspects of care for the newborn/infant. They generally take overall care of the baby, often overnight, whereas the Postpartum Doula will take over newborn care only when parents ask so that they can nap/shower/spend time with older siblings.

Current research has shown that women who are supported during their early postpartum days, allowed to rest and bond with their infants, and taught the basics of newborn care experience:

-Increased rates of breastfeeding success and satisfaction

-Better postpartum adjustment

-Increased confidence in caring for baby

-Reduced incidence in postpartum mood disorders

A postpartum doula supports the entire family, which includes the partner. The household tasks and care of other children often become the sole responsibility of the partner, which leaves little time to bond with the new baby. A doula can help minimize the strain on the partner, while providing nonjudgmental support and encouragement to both parents during this time of transition. Many families also choose to start postpartum doula care a few weeks after the baby is born when a partner returns to work and most help from friends and family goes away.

Postpartum doula services are for anytime in the first 12 weeks with a new baby. I can be there with you the day you return from the hospital, birth center or immediately after a home birth to get everyone settled in. Some families choose to start postpartum doula care a few weeks after the baby is born when a partner returns to work and most help from friends and family goes away. I am here for you when you need me!