Postpartum Doulas

Doulas have come to be known as professionals that "mother the mother".

There are Birth Doulas to assist with labor and delivery and Postpartum Doulas to assist families with the transition that new babies bring. Some Doulas are trained and able to offer support in both roles.

A Postpartum Doula's responsibilities are as varied as the families that they work for. Each family has unique needs and wishes and each Doula comes with their own experiences and skills. In all cases, a Postpartum Doula emotionally and physically helps families ease through the adjustments and changes a new baby brings. The positive reinforcement of a Postpartum Doula leads to less anxiety and stress, speeding mother's recovery time and allowing for more time to bond with baby and build confidence in parenting skills.

A Doula can offer instruction aid in newborn care and postpartum care of mom.
A Doula will encourage and support the breastfeeding mom and baby. Many Postpartum Doulas have additional training in breastfeeding assistance.
A Doula can assist with household tasks and management allowing the parents to rest or spend needed time together.
A Doula might attend to the siblings.
A Doula may bring or cook nutritious foods for mom and family.
A Doula might take over pet care responsibilities or run errands.
A Doula may just sit and listen to mom and share in the joy the new baby brings.

As every family is unique, so is every Doula. Families may wish to interview several to find a Doula that has the skills, experiences and availability that they desire. Some families find a few hours of help a week for a few weeks is enough; others need continuous coverage for months. Ultimately it is the needs of the new mother that will determine what type of postpartum assistance is needed and for how. You can find out more about Postpartum Doulas at: http://www.dona.org/mothers/faqs_postpartum

On the far left are names of CARE Network members who provide postpartum doula services.