07/24/2025
*A non medical support person that offers families guidance, education, information and physical support in the postpartum period*
What does that look like for new parents?
A postpartum doula generally schedules multiple 3-4 hour shifts in the weeks following birth. During these shifts they act as an extra set of hands for the family, performing tasks such as laundry, dishes, bottle sterilization, light tidying, meal prep, childcare (parents can take a shower or nap) and they can help with feeding. They can also offer *overnight* shifts to help with sleep.
Most importantly, they are a non judgemental listening ear. They can answer any questions you might have as you adapt to your new life, providing reassurance and support.
Many expectant parents will mention that they have family close by and will have plenty of support. Family is great! However most visitors expect to come and snuggle the baby with some expectation that life has normalized. A postpartum doula meets you where you’re at with no expectations. Please answer the door in your pajamas, dishes in the sink, and laundry scattered everywhere! If you want to snuggle your baby the whole visit, perfect. If you want to pass off the baby and disappear into your bedroom, perfect. If you want to sleep the entire time, great! There are no expectations for the postpartum period and your doula should make you feel supported throughout this transition.
