I’m so glad that you are interested in what a Postnatal Doula does. Most people google this once they have given birth and are feeling overwhelmed, possibly scared, likely exhausted, and potentially grief stricken. If this is you, please keep reading. If you are still pregnant or in the family-planning stage then you should know that it is never too early to have a postpartum plan.
Every client and every family has different needs. If you don’t know what those needs are yet that is totally okay. If you aren’t sure if you need a postnatal doula because you have family or friends close by, I will explain how we are different.
Day time postnatal shifts are usually 4 or more hours. Some doulas do night support as well but I’m not one of them. I know some great ones though if you would like a referral.
Here is how a typical 4 hour shift usually goes;
-Once I arrive we sit down together and talk about how things are going. I hold space for anything that you want to discuss without judgement. I hear your concerns and questions. Often in the early weeks these centre around baby feeding, sleeping, the family dynamic/relationships, postpartum healing and nutrition, and a lack of sleep for the parents.
-If feeding is proving to be challenging I will help with that. This most definitely looks different for everyone. I am not a lactation consultant but I can often help trouble-shoot and provide some information and education. Or, give you a great referral for an LC.
-If parents are tired, want to shower, read a book, or anything else, I can take care of baby while you do that. Naps are by far the #1 thing moms need.
-I can assist with bottle washing and sterilizing, emptying and reloading the dishwasher, folding laundry, meal prep. Often I can do this while baby is napping.
My goal as a Doula for each shift is to take away the overwhelm and increase mom’s confidence little by little.
Parents and friends might be a great support to have but they don’t often have the professional knowledge to give guidance. In fact, I often help my clients communicate with their family. People often feel that their family members give bias information or misinformation that is actually hurtful. I can also support my clients by giving them some strategies to share with their family so that they feel they are getting the support they need from them.
Postnatal Doulas are like magical fairies that come into your home and make you feel cared for through the most profound transformation you have ever experienced. Who wouldn’t want a Doula?!
