The most important day in your life is coming soon! I’m sure you have a lot of questions – and you should! I’ve made a list of frequently asked questions and answers hoping that they will help you to better understand how I can help you as a doula.
What is the difference between a doula, a baby nurse and a baby coach?
A baby coach is another word for Doula as they are one and the same. The important distinction is for you to understand what services you are contracting for.
What hours do you work?
At the outset, we will create a plan that works for you. I can come during the day or at night. Every family has different needs, and I generally work for 8 to 10 hours per shift, for two to seven nights a week. Contracts range from a few weeks to many months in length. If we need to, we can make adjustments to our plan as we go, and I can include a colleague to assist during my days off.
When Do You Start?
I usually start on the day you and your baby arrive home. This will be determined by your needs.
What happens if I need you to stay overnight?
The first few weeks after giving birth are the most exciting, but they are often sleep deprived. I will stay the night to tend to your baby and will take cat naps in the same room, as time allows. This will allow you to sleep so that you are ready to bond with your newest member of the family the following day.
What is a post-partum doula's goal?
My goal is to nurture both parents into their new roles while helping to keep your baby calm, healthy and happy. As we work together, your knowledge and confidence will grow; with this, your need for my support will diminish.
How does a doula nurture the parents into their roles?
I will also work with your partner to teach him concrete skills that will help him to nurture both the baby and the mother. I will demonstrate how important the partner’s role is during the first weeks and how this will have a very positive effect on the family unit.
How do doulas help mothers with postpartum depression?
While I cannot treat depression, I can help by providing an emotionally safe place for the mother to share her feelings. By caring for the mother, I will make sure that she feels nurtured, has adequate sleep and eats well. I can also assist in referrals to appropriate clinicians, support groups and provide educational materials when needed.
What do I do After You Leave?
Before I leave, I can help you to find a qualified nanny from my personal roster of experienced and caring professionals.
What else do you offer for new mothers and their babies?
- Professional product selection and home preparation for birth
- Bonding facilitation for mother and child
- Behavioral consultation
- Lactation support
- Illness prevention for mother and child
- Postpartum mother care
- Sleep coaching and consultation
- Newborn massage and instruction
- Postpartum nutrition
- Experienced support for postpartum depression and relationship changes
- Early childhood parenting
- Nanny selection and training
See here for more information.