Six Things Your Postpartum Doula Loves to Do
Whether you’ve had a med-free birth or a cesarean, are a first time parent or a 6th time parent, have adopted or walked through your journey with a surrogate. Maybe your family is far away, or right down the street…
Postpartum Doulas have something to offer for ALL parents. In fact, here are six ways a postpartum doula can serve YOU in the 4th trimester no matter how you bring your baby into the world.
Feeding Support.
As a postpartum doula, I know that just like the birth of your child, how you choose to feed your child is deeply personal. That’s why I can help with any feeding questions you have. Breast/chest feeding? We can trouble shoot together. I understand not only the physical work, but the emotional support that goes into it. And if I see something we need to reach out to an expert for, I’ve got references. Pumping? I know how annoying it is to find the perfect pump, set it all up, and disinfecting can be confusing. I’ll be there to help with all of that (and I’ll never leave your home with dishes in the sink). Formula feeding? Parents who choose to formula feed are so often over looked, and I know that not all formulas are created equally. Just as much work, research and time go into bottle feeding as any other form of feeding. I’ll help you find the best ways for you and your baby to thrive. And again, not a dirty dish can get past me!Emotional Support. You’ve waited nine months (or maybe even longer) to become a parent. Maybe you’ve waited years, or maybe you were totally caught off guard with your pregnancy. There is so much emphasis put on pregnancy and labor (and for good reason) but new parents seem to slip through the cracks after bringing baby home. Maybe you’re in total bliss, or maybe not so much. The 4th trimester can be a wonderful, yet confusing time for new parents. Trying to find your “new normal”, navigating hormones, introducing siblings and/or animals, learning about your new relationship with your partner as well as your postpartum body.. it can all be a lot at one time. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Cooking. For me personally, food is a love language I can’t help but share. For a new parent, it is essential to feed your body and your soul. I know you’re exhausted and maybe sore after you come home with your new baby and one of the last things on your mind is “what should I make for dinner?” That’s why I want to cook for you. Whether you are gluten intolerant, on a healthy eating kick, or totally obsessed with chocolate, I’ve got you covered. It’s important to feed your body, but also to feel comforted while doing it. That’s why I never pressure my clients into having me cook something they won’t like. Do you LOVE kale chips? Cool! I can do that. You REALLY feel good after a meatloaf? I’ve got multiple recipes. Whatever nourishment looks like for you, I support you. Remember, it’s #YOURbestpostpartum, afterall.
Housework. So you just had a baby. As it turns out, they make quite the mess and the laundry is piling up. But you’re also so enjoying snuggling in bed with them, and napping when they nap. Your postpartum doula is on duty! You fall asleep without even realizing it, and when you wake up, all of the baby laundry is magically done and put away. I’m not a maid by any means, BUT I am here to make your postpartum experience as easy as I can. Dishes, sweeping the kitchen floor, taking the trash out to the road, laundry. I have all those things covered (and then some)!
Teaching. First time parents, and lots of times even second time parents forget a thing here or there. Totally normal. I’m here to help teach you anything I can. Clipping the baby’s nails, bathing, diapering, soothing, feeding etc. If you have a question, either I’ll know the answer, and I know someone else who does (and have them on speed dial). Parenting a newborn is a process. Every baby is different, every parent is different, and I’m here to help you find the best way for you along the way.
BONUS: Prepare for bringing home baby with our Newborn Care Basics class!
6. Sleeping. You and your baby are in a new cycle and figuring it out as you go. Sometimes baby is asleep and you wonder if what’s happening is normal or if they’ve gotten their days and nights mixed. I can help you understand your baby’s awake and sleep cycles a little better, and sometimes, you’d love just 2 hours of an uninterrupted nap without worrying if the baby is okay. I can offer that to you, as well!. One of the things my clients have continuously looked forward to during my visits, is nap time, for them. Being able to get sleep knowing your baby is in good hands is a gift so many parents need, and one I love to give.