Whether you need a listening ear, a helping hand around the house, or someone to care for your little one while you nap or shower, I am happy to provide non-judgmental support to help your family though the fourth trimester.
I wish I would have known how new babies make all feelings MORE: more thrill, more love, more anguish, more adoration, more fear, more gratitude, more doubt, more crazy. You may have been an emotionally sturdy professional just a minute ago, but a newborn takes your heart and mind, squishes them into pulp in his fat little baby hands, and turns you into a woman face down in despair over a Subaru commercial.
- Jen Hatmaker
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Postpartum Doula?
The Postpartum Doula cares for a new family in their home in the first few weeks following the birth of their baby. A Doula provides non-medical support and companionship, assists with newborn care and sibling adjustment, meal preparation and household organization. (From Northwest Association of Perinatal Support)
Why should I consider hiring a postpartum doula?
Research by experts tells us what many have long suspected: that those new parents who have support and feel secure and cared for during this time are more successful in adapting [to parenthood] than those who don’t. Studies have shown that cultures in which women are cared for by others for a defined period of days or weeks and are expected only to nurture themselves and their babies during that time have superior outcomes in postpartum adjustment. We know that women who experience support from their family members, care providers, counselors and peer groups have greater breastfeeding success, greater self-confidence, [and] less postpartum depression . . . than those who do not.
There is also evidence indicating that timely referrals to competent, appropriate professionals and support groups can have a significant positive outcome for the family. Parents benefit from education on what to expect from a newborn, baby-soothing skills, feeding, bonding and attachment and coping skills.
(From the DONA International Postition Paper.) For the entire article, read The Postpartum Doula’s Role in Maternity Care.
How long do people typically have a doula?
It depends. Generally support runs through the first 3 months of baby’s life, typically from 4-12 weeks.
Do you attend births?
No. Many expecting families work with birth doulas, and I am happy to refer you to a birth doula if you are interested. I come in after your baby is safely delivered and help you in the months to follow as you transition into life with a new family member (or more!).
What services do you offer?
As your postpartum doula, I provide emotional and practical support according to the unique needs of each family with the goal of encouraging bonding between family members as they embrace this momentous shift within the family. Some of these needs you will know in advance, and some we will determine together once we have met your little one. My doula services may include support and assistance with feeding; emotional support with processing the birth as well as suggestions with recovery; help with laundry; errands, including grocery shopping; information on sleep patterns; baby soothing expertise; sibling care; screening for postpartum mood disorders; light housekeeping, including laundry; and nutritious snack and meal preparations.
How flexible are you with scheduling?
Because I have school-aged children, I have limited flexibility with scheduling but will do everything I can to work with your needs.
When should i start thinking about a postpartum doula?
Many families start considering a postpartum doula in their second or third trimester. We typically schedule an initial meeting to determine if working together will be a good fit. From there, we keep in touch to establish what type of care and schedule we will have after baby is born.
Do you offer medical support?
Postpartum doulas do not provide medical support, therefore I will not diagnose, treat or medicate anyone in your home. When medical questions arise, I am happy to refer you to an appropriate medical provider.
What services do you not provide?
In addition to medical support, heavy cleaning, heavy lifting, and yard work are beyond my scope of practice. I am happy to provide referrals for those services.
Do you offer overnight or weekend support?
I can provide 1-2 overnights shifts per week, depending on my current availability. I am available for weekend support.
