What is a postpartum doula?
A postpartum doula is an educator on newborn care, caretaker of the mother, and general household support. The postpartum doula’s job is to ease the transition for both parents and newborn.
Postpartum Support
The postpartum doula will help the mother care for herself and rest after she comes home from the hospital. This may include:
- Bringing the mother food and drink
- Reminding the mother to rest and recover
- Giving the mother a break from caring for the newborn
- Assisting with light household duties and cleanliness
- Running short errands
- Light meal preparation
- Sibling care
- Offering referrals to resources and support groups
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not always easy. The mother and child must find positions that work well for both. A new mother must also learn how to latch the baby to prevent pain, mastitis, blisters, and engorgement. The postpartum doula can troubleshoot problems and assist with positioning, nutrition, pumping, and transitioning from breast to bottle. If problems persist, the postpartum doula should be able to offer referrals to lactation consultants, if necessary.
Newborn Care
The postpartum doula is a helper and educator who teaches and helps new parents with basic newborn care, including:
- Bath time
- Sleep training
- Feeding
- Identifying newborn's cues
- Exercises and activities for newborns
- Cloth diapering
- Infant massage
- Dressing
