A postpartum doula is a professional support person trained to support the needs of a family in the days, weeks and months after birth or the addition of a new baby. The postpartum doula offers non-judgmental support, guidance, evidence-based education and practical hands-on support immediately after birth through the first 6 months, up to one year in certain circumstances.
Having a support person to take the load off a parent mentally, physically and emotionally can decrease postpartum depression and anxiety. A postpartum doula can support a mother with many children and the parents receive true village support!
Ways in which a postpartum doula can enrich your life as a parent with a newborn:
- You will get the rest you deserve after giving birth, transitioning into motherhood for the first time or adjusting to a new layer of motherhood (with many kids!).
- You will have quality meals prepared and you shall be properly nourished.
- You will have a tidy home and the laundry taken care of!
- The postpartum doula can help older children adjust to the new baby since the parents can take a break from newborn duties and focus on their toddlers.
- You will learn about co-sleeping and how to arrange a safe and healthy bedtime routine
- You will learn how to baby-wear and wrap your newborn close to your body for their comfort and your peace of mind.
- Help you navigate questions and advice given by your health care providers.
- You will get professional lactation support and guidance. Jessica Bell, our lactation doula, is our main resource for families who choose to nurse their babies. Bottle-feeding advice and formula education can be provided from an evidence-based perspective.
- And many more beautiful benefits of having the Ode To Birth team supporting your time of transition.
