What is a Postpartum Doula and what does she do?

When I tell people that I'm a postpartum doula, most people's first response is, "Oh, you help moms with depression?" While this is in part true, this is only a small part of what a doula can do for a mom and her baby. The stresses of having a new baby in the family could lead to troubled feelings, helplessness, and sometimes depression. The key is that a doula is there to ease those stresses.

The word postpartum broken into parts is; post meaning "after" and partum meaning "to bring forth." Doula is a greek word meaning "mother servant."

The title Postpartum Doula refers to a person who takes care of a mom during the time right after she gives birth to her baby.

Throughout history family and friends close to mom (also know as her tribe) come to help and nurture her as she recovers and cares for her baby.

In this modern day a mom's tribe is not always available because of how busy we all have become. Many times there are family members and friends that come to help with the best intentions. With all the great help that does come, there are also some that come but don't realize the pressure that's put on mom to keep herself and her home "presentable." The many visitors and helpers might end up putting extra stress on this precious bonding time with her baby.

One of the most important parts of being a parent is taking care of yourself first!

One of the best decisions moms can make for is to call on our tribe for support. The members of our tribe are your family, friends, neighbors, mentors, and professionals in postpartum care. They will coach you through difficult times and that guidance will result in moms and families thriving.

After baby is born, one of mom's strongest and most efficient supporters will be her postpartum doula.

Investing in a postpartum doula will give mom and her family nonjudgmental guidance through a stressful time due to lack of sleep, difficult decisions, and lack of optimal nutrition. This once in a lifetime occasion just after baby is home ought to be a time of joy and recovery!

As your postpartum doula, I would be honored to be a part of your tribe mentoring and guiding you to feel your best and to lead a happy healthy family!