Photo Credit: Meg Hart Photography
What is a Postpartum Doula? What kind of care will I receive?
A Postpartum Doula is a non-medical, emotional and physical support person who assists you and your family after your baby/babies have been born. The Support of a Postpartum Doula will help bring the focus back to the healing and recovery, and ensure plenty of snuggling and proper nourishment for mom and baby. I am there to make sure you get a shower, and endless snacks. I can cook a family meal so you do not have to, help with mundane tasks like folding laundry or taking care of the dishes. Help with breastfeeding/bottle feeding/formula feeding, teach you how to use your breast pump or figuring out how that baby carrier works. I will be there for you as your hormones are quickly adjusting, making you feel sad and happy at the same time. We can discuss your birth experience and how you feel about it. I can offer insight to newborn sleep and feeding routines from a professional perspective as well as from a Mama of two. Not only am I here to facilitate and nurture the Mama, but also to meet the needs of the whole family, like playing with or reading books to your older child while you take a nap. You can look forward to having time for self care, connecting with your Spouse or just simply having time to smell your newborns head. Every mother and family have different needs, meaning not every family receives the same type of support. Having the support of a Postpartum Doula makes the difference in whether you just survive, or thrive in the fourth trimester, (the 12 weeks following the birth of the baby/babies). During this time your baby is adjusting to life outside of your womb, and your body is healing internally from the pregnancy.
What is a Birth Doula? How do I know I will benefit from one?
From the beginning of time women have given birth surrounded by women. During labor you deserve to be loved and nurtured as you become a Mother. A Birth Doula is a non-medical professional who provides continuous emotional and physical support to the Mother and birth partner. By having Birth Doula Support, women are less likely to need Pitocin, have a cesarean birth, use pain medication; and more likely to enjoy their birth experience. By providing physical support the Birth Doula will make suggestions as labor progresses like position changes, counter pressure, and breathing techniques. Birth Doulas also provide continuous emotional support not only during labor but throughout pregnancy. A Birth Doula will help the family feel supported through the process, creating a safe and loving environment for the baby to be born into. In addition to labor support, Birth Doulas can provide evidence-based information and teach the new parents how to properly advocate for their wishes. Although Birth Doulas are not Medical professionals, they bring much needed support to the team. During your prenatal meetings we will discuss comfort measures you might want to explore, and how we can prepare you and your partner for the arrival of your new baby. I will provide you with the comfort to talk about all the uncomfortable things pregnancy brings, and a friendly voice to talk you through whatever fears you may have. You will have access to my local resource lists, who I love and recommend.