WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA DO?
I provide support to all types of families, including biological and adoptive families living in Philadelphia or Montgomery or Bucks counties. Support focuses on the needs of each family during the early stages of postpartum or early parenthood. Services are provided either short or long term. The following are examples of what I do as a postpartum doula.
Emotional support
Sit with parents as they discuss their feelings and concerns
Be a listening ear to a birthing person as they process their birth story
Be mindful of mood and signs of postpartum depression
Support moments of self-care
Baby care guidance
Facilitate feeding (breast/chest feeding, formula feeding and pumping) through positioning and guidance
Education on basic baby care, such as diapering, dressing, bathing and sleep
Guidance on babywearing
Logistical & household support
Help family with communication and flow of visitors
Set up changing and feeding stations
Prepare meals and snacks
Light household cleaning and laundry
Comfort measures & physical support
Help parents stay nourished and hydrated
Care for baby while parents nap or rest
Support sibling integration and adjustment
Support physical recovery from birth with resources and and guidance
Resource & community building
Provide suggestions of resources and referrals when needed
Assess skills and concerns and make recommendations when appropriate
Answer questions from family and any visitors
Connect family with local resources and networks for new parents
