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Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous.
It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body.
What is a Postpartum Doula?
A postpartum doula is a highly trained woman (who is also an experienced mother) who is committed to providing support and guidance to the mother, infant, and family after birth. She is knowledgeable on a range of topics including breastfeeding, postpartum healing, sibling adjustment, and infant care.
A doula's role is fluid, changing from family to family and day-to-day. She is a teacher, a friend, a shoulder to cry on, or the person who helps identify and celebrate the small triumphs of the day. A doula can look after the infant giving the parents a much-needed break and they can provide coaching for infant care and soothing techniques. She offers practical support, nurturing older children, preparing nutritious meals, and facilitating confidence and tranquility for the entire family. Doulas are trained to recognize when a family can benefit from specialized help and offers reliable referrals when needed. At all times, the doula provides reassurance, support, and the belief that these parents can and will be successful in nurturing their family.
Why Do You Need One?
Sometimes women are surprised at how low they can feel only a few days after experiencing the joy and excitement of birth. Full of hormones, sleep-deprived, and anxious, many feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of motherhood. A doula helps to both shelter and guide the mother and family through the transitions surrounding a newborn. Numerous studies have shown that postpartum doulas have a significant positive impact in several areas:
- Supported mothers have a lower incidence of postpartum depression and less severe symptoms when it does occur.
- Doulas facilitate increased and earlier bonding between the infant and the entire family unit.
- Doulas help mothers to achieve greater success with breastfeeding.
- Doulas alleviate exhaustion, frustration, and trepidation during early weeks.
- Doulas engender a greater sense of self-confidence for both parents.
- Doulas enable partners to return to work sooner and with less anxiety.
What Should You Expect From a Postpartum Doula?
Your doula should be certified through a reputable organization such as Maternitywise or DONA. She should have current Infant and Toddler CPR certification. And she should be fully insured. Additionally she should be current on matters related to infant care, postpartum healing and adjustment, and breastfeeding. She should be a friend and confidant who is there to support you and your parenting choices.
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