Frequently asked questions about Postpartum Doula Care
Postpartum Doula FAQs
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What is a postpartum doula?
A postpartum doula is a trained professional who provides support to families after the birth of a baby. This support can be emotional, informational, and physical and is intended to help families transition smoothly into life with a newborn.
What kind of support does a postpartum doula provide?
A postpartum doula may provide a range of services, including emotional support, infant feeding assistance, newborn care guidance, and help with new-to-you tasks like bathing, diapering, and soothing. They may also assist with light housekeeping, meal preparation, sibling care, and provide resources and referrals as needed.
How soon after birth does a postpartum doula begin services, and how long do they last?
A postpartum doula can begin services shortly after birth, often within the first few days after you come home. The duration of services can vary widely depending on a family's needs and preferences, from a few days to several months. Typically, postpartum care is scheduled as blocks of time in advance.
Can a postpartum doula provide overnight care?
I am happy to discuss overnight care as part of your postpartum plan. The first nights with baby are a huge adjustment and I can help with nighttime feedings and soothing, allowing parents to get more sleep which will be crucial to the well-being of the family.
Can a postpartum doula support me if I'm adopting or using a surrogate?
Absolutely, a postpartum doula can provide valuable support to families who are adopting or using a surrogate. They can offer assistance with newborn care, bonding, feeding, providing resources and connecting with a bigger community of parents like you.