what is a doula?
A doula is a nonmedical assistant that is commonly known for attending the birth of a baby and/or assisting postpartum. However, in recent years, many doulas have expanded their practice into other understandings of ‘birth’ - many doulas provide abortion support, death and end of life support, support during gender affirmation surgeries, and other times of significant change.
Currently, I only provide postpartum support, after the birth of your baby(ies). Doulas help fill the information gap in childbirth and can be a great resource for you and your family. We provide physical, emotional, and informational support. Doulas do not speak for your and your family, and we do not provide medical advice or assistance. As a doula, I will provide you with information to make the best decisions for you and your family.
what does a postpartum doula do?
Postpartum doulas assist with light housekeeping, such as dishes, trash, sweeping, laundry, etc; pet care; care for older siblings; tips for smoother feeding, sleeping, and diapering; supervision of baby while the birthing person sleeps, showers, or takes time alone; and many other tasks such as food prep, meal train organization, help setting boundaries with friends and family, mental health check ins, access to support groups or other care providers, breast/chest/bodyfeeding support, emotional processing of birth or other experiences, and more. Doulas do not assist with medical advice or needs, such as medication passing or wound care.
why hire a doula?
Many birthing people are unable to take time off work to heal post-birth, and many folks in their lives cannot take time off to assist them. Oftentimes, parents or other community members do not live nearby. Additionally, many birthing people do not have access to the medical care or information they desire, and it is the doula’s privilege to help fill some of these shoes. Families who hire doulas have proven positive outcomes, and you have a constant resource for advocacy, support, and information.