A postpartum doula works with a new parent and new family. Birthing people are now leaving hospital much sooner than a generation ago. And with Covid, discharges are taken place earlier again. And while its lovely to be home..... there is a certain type of support that can help new parents thrive!
My role as a doula is to provide non-judgemental support and companionship. If a parent is feeling overwhelmed with unsolicited and possibly outdated advice, I can be on-hand to educate and provide evidence-based information on request. The kind of non-medical support that is so helpful includes; practical support with day-to-day household duties, knowing what is normal for mom and baby and situations when referrals are appropriate.
The validation and nurturing in the weeks following the birth, while the mother is still in the 'fourth trimester', can be found in many traditional cultures. New mothers' benefit from a period of rest and recuperation and bonding with the new baby. The doula's training, quiet support and guidance are designed to fill a gap in maternity services and modern society.
Typically the support offered by a postpartum doula takes place during the newborn/ infant period of 0-3 months.
