Postpartum Doula
In the first few months after giving birth, many families need a little extra support. Whereas a Newborn Care Specialist focuses on the newborn baby, a postpartum doula specializes in caring for the whole family. The early postpartum period is a time full of joy and love, but it can also be a time of chaos and doubt as family members try to find their “new normal.” Having someone around who is trained to mediate any family dynamics that come up and to educate the family on caring for a newborn can be invaluable.
Who’s it for?
Postpartum doulas are not only for first-time parents. All families can benefit from a little support, whether they are newbies or veteran parents. Give us a call today to learn how a postpartum doula can benefit your family.
We have the best!
YesBabyCare represents only the most qualified postpartum doulas! Each one is required to have a Postpartum Doula Certification (or equivalent experience), an up to date infant CPR and First Aid certification, and at least 5 years of experience. Our caregivers are passionate about providing the very best care to the whole family.
Postpartum Doula’s Responsibilities
Rest
A postpartum doula will take care of the baby so the parent(s) can have some time to themselves, but the job doesn’t end there. A doula will also focus on teaching the parent(s) how to manage when the doula is not present, finding a schedule that works well for all members of the family so everyone can get the rest they need.
Advice
Postpartum doulas have extensive training in newborn behavior and appearance and in normal postpartum healing. While they are not licensed medical professionals and cannot diagnose medical or mental health issues, they can point out things that don’t seem normal so that parents can follow up with the appropriate medical professional. They can also ease parents’ concerns about issues like diaper rash, teaching parents how to handle the situation appropriately.
A Listening Ear
A postpartum doula is a good listener. During times of transition, it helps to have someone to talk to. Perhaps you need someone to help you organize your thoughts for your child’s first appointment with their pediatrician. Maybe you want to talk about postpartum healing and how your body is feeling. Or maybe it’s just nice to have someone around who “gets it.” A postpartum doula knows what you’re going through and provides a listening ear.
Hands-On Support
Whether it’s breastfeeding support, bottle feeding, diaper changes, or car seat education, your postpartum doula can help. A postpartum doula can offer practical, hands-on assistance with each of these tasks when you need a hand, but will ultimately ensure that the parent(s) master each skill themselves.
Resources & Referrals
Because of their extensive experience working with new parents in your area, your postpartum doula will have a lot of helpful resources. They can help you find medical professionals (for example, a pelvic floor physical therapist) or can offer advice about which baby care products to use (such as which brand of baby sunscreen they like best). While there usually isn’t one right answer, their familiarity with the various options can help you make an informed decision.
Preparation
The most important responsibility of a postpartum doula is to prepare you for life after they have completed their time with you. Their goal is to leave you feeling empowered and well-informed, settled into your new normal and ready to take on the future together.
Schedule & Rates
A postpartum doula typically works with a family for 12 weeks, but every family’s needs are unique. For example, more complicated births or premature babies might require an increased time frame of 16 weeks or more.
Daytime and Night shifts are available. YesBabyCare will help you create a schedule that fits with your needs, following these guidelines:
- Daytime shifts start at a minimum of 5 hours and can be as long as 12 hours.
- Overnight shifts start at a minimum of 10 hours and can be as long as 12 hours.
Rates for postpartum doulas start at $40/hr – $60/hr YesBabyCare recommends booking your postpartum doula at least 2-3 months prior to your due date as highly experienced candidates book up quickly.
What Our Families are Saying
Sali is a fantastic baby nurse. She was very helpful in showing my daughter how to take care of a newborn. She took care of the baby as if it were her own child. Thank you YesBabyCare.