What is a Postpartum Doula?

As a Postpartum Doula, I help create the environment your family needs to nurture itself after the birth of your baby. My approach is not to assume primary responsibility for the newborn, but rather to assist you and your partner in your new roles as parents so you more easily bond with and take care of your baby. The first weeks home with a newborn are very exciting times as you learn more about yourselves and your baby. These may also be challenging times, when adjustments will have to be made in your life.  In the past, families had extensive support systems of women who helped to care for the new mother and her baby.  Today, this is not always the case, so a Postpartum Doula steps in to nurture the mother, father, and baby. A Doula “mothers the mother.”

Who needs a Postpartum Doula? Or better yet; who deserves a Postpartum Doula? 

Any family who wants a smoother transition!!  You and every woman who has just given birth deserve to be cared for. You deserve time to spend exclusively with your new child, and time to rest and recuperate without household chores on your mind. A sympathetic ear from a caring professional is also helpful. First-Time Parents benefit from having an experienced, knowledgeable person to support and guide them in the beginning times with their child. Growing Families find that balancing their attention between the new baby and other children is easier with extra help.  People having twins or multiple births need additional help and for longer periods of time.

What is the difference between a Postpartum Doula, a nanny, and a baby nurse?  

A nanny normally cares for babies, and children exclusively. A baby nurse has medical training, also caring exclusively for the baby.  A Postpartum Doula is a nonmedical profession. A Postpartum Doula specializes in the care of you, the mother, the household and siblings; offering help with the baby when needed.

I already have children, and am confident in my baby skills, how can a Postpartum Doula help me?  

Siblings need extra attention while you get to know your new child.  A your Doula, I can put together simple meals and perform light chores, such as, empty the dishwasher, for starters.  I can also help you sort out the challenges a new family member can bring, and take time with your older child so that you have some quality time to bond with your new one without interruptions.

When should I begin to look for a postpartum doula?  

Between the 4th and 6th month is an ideal time to interview with your prospective Doula. This allows you to focus on your birth, feeling secure in the knowledge that you have help in place for the first few weeks after your baby is born.  Any time right up to your ninth month is a fine time to call, please remember a Postpartum Doulas' schedule can fill up months in advance.

What if my baby is already here and I have discovered I need help? 

Call and I will do my best to provide you with this specialized care.  We can look at what your challenges are and work to make things easier for you. I often get calls from new mothers and fathers once the baby is home as they now realize the need for help.

How much will a Postpartum Doula cost?  

Current prices are from $20-$30 an hour depending on what time of day you hire her for, and for what length of time. I personally charge $20/hour for a minimum of a four hour shift for a minimum of two days a week for two weeks. This allows us to trouble-shoot what is going on, teach you new skills and have some measure of success. I am always available for more time and do suggest if your partner is going back to work right away you get a postpartum doula for at least one month.

What if I can't afford the cost?  

Relatives, such as grandparents are often glad to pay for this much needed service.  Groups, such as coworkers, or friends will sometimes get together to offer this wonderful gift. 

Will insurance pay for my Postpartum Doula?  

Occasionally.  The more people requesting payment for this highly specialized service, the more likely it is that insurance companies will pay.

What hours can I expect a Doula to work with my family?

I require a commitment of two - four hour shifts for a two week period. This enables me to assist you with your challenges and reinforce success. Ultimately, I am there to work myself out of a job…this means that you would feel confident and capable of the new responsibilities you have as a new parent and that I have helped to connect you to community resources such as mother groups so you have external support as well. 

This is such a private time for my family, how can I be sure I will feel comfortable with a Doula?  

Interview any Doulas you are interested in, then call their past clients for references.  As a Postpartum Doula I work in many different homes in the course of a year.  It becomes second nature to 'fit in' with many different styles of families.

Can hiring a Postpartum Doula reduce my risk of postpartum depression?  

While experts agree that sleep deprivation and feelings of isolation often accompany postpartum mood disorders, having a Doula in your home can lessen the cause of these symptoms; offering more opportunity to rest as well as someone to talk to. An experienced Postpartum Doula can, through observation on a regular basis, recognize the possible need for outside help, and offer referrals accordingly.  At this point, Postpartum Doulas cannot make the scientific claim to reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

How does a Doula nurture the parents into their roles?

Self-confidence has a tremendous impact on a person's ability to approach any task, and parenting is no different.  Doulas are taught to always consider parents' feelings and always build confidence whenever possible.  Doulas accomplish this through praise, acceptance, and a non-judgmental approach. In addition, the Doula will teach parents strategies and skills that will improve their ability to bond with their babies.  A calm baby who is growing well will help parents to feel more confident in their skills.  The Doula will share evidence-based information with the partner that shows how his or her role in the early weeks will have a dramatic positive effect on the family.

Who uses overnight services?

Overnight services are used especially in the case of preemies, twins, triplets, and more.  All new families can benefit from using overnight services, not just families with multiples, a lot of mothers with singletons would just like to get those few extra hours of sleep.  In some cases, if the father needs to be away from the home overnight, the presence of a Postpartum Doula provides this additional support to the mother during this transition period.  Even for first time mothers, experienced mothers who already have other children ... it is very hard to function with your other children when you haven't received a good night's sleep.  Almost all parents, even those who have family help, usually need some type of overnight assistance from outside sources.  I usually do not work overnight shifts but I am happy to make referrals to Postpartum Doulas who do.