So what's the deal with postpartum doulas?

    After nine wonderful years as a postpartum doula, the question, "A postpartum doula, what’s that?" still echoes in my ears. It's a journey filled with heartwarming moments, sleepless nights, and an unwavering commitment to supporting new moms. This blog isn't about tooting my own horn; as I hope to demystify the role of postpartum doulas for those who may not have encountered this invaluable resource yet.

 A Night in the Life of an Overnight Postpartum Doula

 Picture this: I arrive at the homes of usually very sleepy parents, ready to embark on a night of care and support. We have conversations about their baby, nightly routines, and feeding habits. Together, we plan the night—deciding whether the baby will be bottle-fed by me or nursed by mom and I offer to tackle tasks like folding baby laundry, sterilizing bottles, or preparing snacks for the tired mother.

 Adaptability is key; I set up wherever the parents feel most comfortable, be it the nursery, living area, or a guest room. As the parents retreat to bed, I step into the role of caregiver, ensuring a smooth night for the baby. A detailed log capturing wake-up times, feeds, and diaper changes is kept throughout the night, and in the morning, after a debriefing session, I send mom a text with my notes.

 Educational Support and Resources 

Beyond the practical assistance during the night, my role extends to providing resources and evidence-based education on newborn care, sleep, and breastfeeding. I become a listening ear, offering moms a safe space to process their birth story and discuss any concerns about their new role. Utilizing my expertise as a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, I assist mothers in navigating challenges, providing support to help them reach their breastfeeding goals.

 Building a Network of Support 

Over the years, I've cultivated an expansive referral network. When faced with situations beyond my scope, I happily connect my clients with other professionals who can provide the specialized assistance they need. Additionally, I love lending out books on various topics like infant sleep and breastfeeding, creating a comprehensive support system for new parents.

 In short, a postpartum doula is more than a caregiver; many refer to us as "professional baby whisperers"  It's not just about the baby; It's about creating a cocoon of support, knowledge, and empathy during those critical early days of parenthood.