Why Hire a Postpartum Doula?

Many years ago, I read a book called “Operating Instructions” by Anne Lamott. The book was the result of a diary Anne had kept, chronicling her son’s first year of life. It was a totally honest look at having a baby – depicting every messy, joyful, anxiety producing moment of having a newborn. She was a single mom who had the support of a loving friend, but was mainly winging it on her own. Because let’s face it, as the title indicates, these little people do not come with manuals. Thinking back on that book, I realize that Anne could have really benefited from a postpartum doula.

Many times when I tell people that I’m a postpartum doula, they ask exactly what do I do. Well a postpartum doula is like a mom, sister and friend all wrapped up in one. She will make sure the new mom is taking care of herself: napping, drinking water, eating snacks and meals prepared for her. She will also help with nursing: getting a good latch, trying different nursing positions, increasing milk supply etc. We teach various soothing techniques for the baby, what Dr. Harvey Karp – “The Happiest Baby on the Block” author calls the 5 S’s (swaddling, swaying, sucking, shhshing, sling wearing). We do laundry, light housekeeping, and organizing the nursery. While a mom, sister, or friend might do all of the things I have mentioned above, they might also bring their own baggage along and I’m not talking about their suitcases. Friends and family mean well, however they may let their own experiences dictate what they think you should do and what they believe is best. A postpartum doula supports you; she doesn’t tell you what to do. The information she gives has no agenda and is strictly evidence based. So when do you start thinking about hiring a postpartum doula?

Just as you wouldn’t hire a labor doula when you are in labor, you don’t want to wait until you have the baby to consider postpartum help. Before the baby arrives, think about the kind of help that you might need and would be most beneficial to you. Think about whom best would provide that help. It may be a mother, aunt, sister or friend or you may want a postpartum doula. Planning ahead who will support you after your birth will go a long way in making the transition into parenthood much smoother.

By Patricia Schultz