Postpartum FAQ | nurture-life

Frequently Asked Questions

Many wonder what a postpartum doula is all about. What kind of services does she provide? What hours does she work? How long would she be with a family?

What is a Postpartum Doula?

Doulas are trained in postpartum adjustment, newborn characteristics, care, feeding and development and the promotion of parent-infant bonding. they are experienced in supporting families through their postpartum experience.

(DONA international Position Paper: The Postpartum Doula)

What does a Postpartum Doula do?

Coming into the home during the fourth trimester following birth, the doula's role is to provide education, non-judgmental support and companionship; and to assist with the 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.

The doula can serve as a buffer for new parents who receive a great deal of unsolicited and possibly outdated advice. the doula can help friend and family members to foster and support the parenting decisions of the new parents. By modeling a deep respect for the wisdom and decision making abilities of the new parents, she makes clear that supporting them in their own choices will have the best possible results.

(DONA international Position Paper: The Postpartum Doula)

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

A postpartum doula is a supportive advisor and helper who is professionally trained to provide postpartum support tot he mother and her family. A baby nurse is a professionally trained or lay person who comes into the home and cares for a newborn baby. Their role is geared specifically toward infant care. The doula provides excellent infant care, but their primary focus is educating and supporting parents and providing breastfeeding support, emotional support, resources and any necessary referral information.

(DONA international Position Paper: The Postpartum Doula)

How long does a Postpartum Doula spend with a family?

This depends on each family and their own needs. For some families this is only for the first couple of weeks and a couple times during each week. For other families they may need services for 6-12 weeks, several times a week as mom is healing from a cesarean or traumatic birth, multiples, other birth related issues, or limited or no family support. I will work with your family to figure out what your needs are and how I can best be of service to you for the period of time you need help.

What hours do you typically work with a family?

I am available Tuesdays, Thursday, Fridays, and some Saturdays and Sundays from 5 am to 5 pm. On special circumstance I will work on holidays or overnights. Don't be afraid to ask! I will you know if I am not able to do it.

Webmaster Login