Frequently asked questions.
What might the postpartum doula do when she comes to my home?
The role of the postpartum doula is fluid. An important part of her role is to come alongside the parents and together decide what type of support they will need. Some families need educational support: breastfeeding, infant support, and how to care for the new mother. Others rely more on the non-judgmental emotional support that the DONA International postpartum doula has to offer. Still others have more practical needs – like feeding the family and running errands. Most families find that their doula provides all of these things, according to the needs that develop, as well as the ever-important communication between the doula and her clients.
What may doula support of a family during daytime include?
A postpartum doula supporting a family during daytime hours might…
Provide hands-on education on infant and mother care
Come alongside the parents and help them to get to know the abilities and talents of their new baby
Create a nurturing, restful atmosphere in which parents may eat, shower and nap
Prepare light meals
Play with older children and offer suggestions for how to integrate the new baby into the family
Spend time with the baby, allowing parents to cuddle and have quality time with older children or just be alone together
Introduce parenting tips, helping parents to learn skills that will enable them to cope with their new responsibilities
Screen for hurdles such as breastfeeding challenges or postpartum mood disorders
Make referrals to any local or informational resources that the parents might need
Work herself out of a job by helping parents to gather the skills and resources that they will need in the upcoming weeks and months
Help to organize the nursery and home
Take care of the baby’s laundry
Offer a listening, non-judgmental ear
(source: DONA International)
How can I get in touch with you?
I do my best to make myself available to you when I am needed. To learn more about the services at Dragonfly Postpartum Doula Care visit the contact page or call us at (207) 807-3524.