What is a Doula?

Labor Doula

Role of a Labor Doula

Effects on Birth Outcomes

Comments About Our
Labor Doulas

Postpartum Doula

Role of a Postpartum Doula

Comments About Our Postpartum Doulas

Role of the Postpartum Care Doula

Postpartum Care Doulas provide the following in those first few weeks after the birth of your baby:

Physical comfort to the new mother

• Help mom to care for her postpartum body
• Information to aide in healing of the perineum or incision
• Make sure the mom is able to eat, drink, shower and rest
• Help the new mom cope with sore nipples and engorgement

Emotional support for the family

• Listen to the birth story
• Validate the normal adjustment period
• Support mom through emotional vulnerability
• Support dad through the transition to his new role
• Help siblings adjust to the presence of a new baby

Guidance in infant care

• Help the mom learn to feed her baby
• Demonstrate infant care techniques such as diapering and bathing
• Give information on newborn care recommendations
• Aide parents to develop their own style of nurturing and bonding with the baby

Household assistance

• Prepare meals and snacks for the new mom and family
• Run errands: shop for food, supplies, etc
• Light housekeeping
• May do baby laundry

Postpartum Doulas DO NOT:

• Evaluate the mom or baby’s medical condition
• Take over the care of the baby
• Insist new parents care for their baby in any particular style
• Do heavy housecleaning (mopping, cleaning bathtubs, etc.)

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