“Mothers need just as much attention as a newborn because they too have just been born” –Jessica Strange.
Throughout your pregnancy, you daydream about life with your baby, research items for your registry, and plan for the big event itself—childbirth. After many gruelling hours of labour and birth, you may be surprised at just how exhausted you are, both mentally and physically. This is where a postpartum doula can step in to provide much-needed emotional and physical support during the postpartum period.
What is a Postpartum Doula?
A postpartum doula helps with essential emotional and physical care in the delicate weeks after your baby is born. Whether this is your first or sixth child, the fourth trimester is a significant period of adjustment for you, your body, and your whole family. Unlike a birth doula, who supports you during labour and after the birth, a postnatal doula focuses on providing care and guidance for both the new mother and the newborn in the weeks following delivery.
Many undergo training and certification before practising. While some programs are available online, most require hands-on training, covering essential areas such as infant feeding, breastfeeding, and maternal recovery.
If you’re wondering how a postpartum doula care service can provide support, here’s what you need to know about their role, benefits, and how to find a postpartum doula near you.
Emotional and Informational Support
Talking and Listening to your Concerns
A doula is a listening ear when you need to talk about the challenges of parenthood. They understand that you may be sleep-deprived, experiencing ups and downs, and adjusting to your new baby. Having someone to discuss your emotions with—without judgment—can be invaluable.
Postpartum doulas give practical support by answering common concerns such as:
- Is it normal for my baby to sleep so much?
- How do I care for my baby’s umbilical stump?
- How can I get my baby to latch properly when I breastfeed?
Additionally, they provide guidance on postpartum healing, such as perineal care, wound healing, and relief from back and neck pain caused by prolonged holding and feeding positions.
Hands-On Help with Infant Care
Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Support
One of the most essential aspects of postpartum doula services is breastfeeding support. Reading about it is one thing, but having an experienced support person guiding you through latching, positioning, and troubleshooting feeding challenges can make a world of difference.
If you’re bottle-feeding, a doula might assist with paced bottle feeding, a method that helps prevent overfeeding and supports a baby’s natural feeding instincts.
Bathing and Diaper Changes
New parents often find bathing their newborn to be a nerve-wracking experience. A doula service can help you learn safe, comfortable ways to bathe your baby. They also provide guidance on diapering, including caring for circumcised and intact babies, setting up an ergonomic changing station, and treating diaper rash.
Household Support and Self-Care
Giving you a break
One of the biggest lessons in parenting is that taking time for yourself is essential. Many doulas offer assistance in watching the baby while you take a nap, shower, or enjoy a meal. Some may even prepare a relaxing sitz bath for postpartum healing. Postpartum doulas provide opportunities for parents to reconnect with themselves and their partners, ensuring that self-care is a priority.
Practical Household Assistance
In addition to direct baby care, doulas provide practical household assistance, which may include:
- Light housework such as washing dishes or folding laundry
- Organising baby items and nursery setup
- Meal preparation to ensure the new mother is nourished
How to Find a Postpartum Doula
If this sounds like a service you’d like to explore, you can start by searching for local postpartum doula services in your area. You can also check with organisations such as the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association, which provides directories to help you find certified doulas. Additionally, many doulas work within community doula programs, offering sliding-scale services for families in need.
Benefits of Hiring a Postpartum Doula
- Personalized newborn care tailored to your family’s needs
- Breastfeeding and feeding support to ensure a successful start
- Guidance on postpartum healing and maternal well-being
- Reduced stress and anxiety by having expert assistance
- Support for siblings as they adjust to a new baby in the home
Final Thoughts
The transition into parenthood is a profound experience, and having the right support can make all the difference. A postnatal doula offers emotional support, practical assistance, and expert guidance to help new parents navigate the challenges of the postpartum period with confidence. If you’re interested, take the time to find a postpartum doula who aligns with your needs and values.
For more information, download our leaflet or contact us for additional details on how a doula service can support your family. If you’ve worked with a postpartum doula before, share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!