What is a Postpartum Doula?

A postpartum doula is someone who comes to your home after you’ve given birth to support your healing and help you to enjoy a gentler transition into parenthood.

They are non-medical professionals who specialise in providing nurturing care to parents and babies in those first precious weeks following a new arrival.

Birth Doula or Postpartum Doula?

Most people are surprised to learn that postpartum doulas are different to birth doulas. Many associate the role of a doula with someone who is present to provide non-medical support during your birth experience. Birth is a hugely important, life-changing experience and birth doulas are a big part of making that experience positive.

Indeed, during pregnancy so much planning and emphasis is placed on the birth process, without too much information or planning about the early postpartum phase.

What happens when you get home with your newborn and reality sets in?

Suddenly, you’re feeling unsure of yourself and wishing your baby came with an instruction manual - all while trying to recover from the intense physical effort of birth! It really can be overwhelming…

This is where a postpartum doula steps in. We are dedicated to providing you and your little one with the care you need to get the most from this sacred time.

What does a Postpartum Doula do?

So what does this care entail? How do postpartum doulas work?

Approaches can vary slightly between doulas, but I can offer an insight to how I work.

My work begins during pregnancy, meeting families to create a postpartum support plan that ensures they feel prepared, supported, and nurtured in the early weeks.

I offer a holistic approach centred on rest, nourishing foods, and hands on support for both mother and baby. My main focus is taking care of mothers so that they can take care of their babies.

Surrendering to really slowing down in the fourth trimester can help parents enjoy and embrace this transformative period. I truly believe that if new parents are cared for and nurtured in the same way newborns are, they will flourish and thrive themselves.

I’m here to listen, reassure, and guide parents through those “I”m not sure what I’m doing” moments that happen very frequently in the early days!

As new parents, it can be overwhelming with all the well-meaning advice everyone loves to give. An experienced doula can help you figure out what will work best for your family.

Why Choose a Postpartum Doula?

There are many reasons to work with a postpartum doula. Here are 5 great reasons it might be the right fit for you:

• Delicious, nourishing food

  
  

  Preparing healthy meals and snacks that taste really good is one of my specialities. With a keen focus on Ayurvedic recipes and principles, I will prepare a selection of meals and tasty treats you have chosen.

  
  

• Breastfeeding advice and support

  
  

  Need help with breastfeeding? I’m here for you. It takes time and patience for both mum and baby to figure out what works best when it comes to breastfeeding. I offer support in finding comfortable positions, helping with latch, and simply encouraging you through those early feeds, which can make all the difference.

  
  

• Light housework

  
  

  I also look after the day-to-day tasks that new parents shouldn’t have to think about in the early weeks. You’ve just birthed a baby, you’re healing, not sleeping, and in love - you should not be worrying about laundry, tidying up, or cooking dinner!

  
  

• Emotional support

  
  

  One of my favourite parts of my job is chatting with new mothers during each visit. Usually, I start a visit by checking in with mama to see how the night has been for everyone, how she’s feeling, and what she needs most today.

  
  

  Often, these chats can turn into deep, emotional talks - a safe space where she can vent, voice any concerns, or work out solutions. 

  
  

• Providing opportunity for rest

  
  

  I know from experience, and from my hearing what my clients tell me, that most new mothers find it hard to switch off and rest. Even when friends and family offer to help, new parents can feel like they should play host or stay and chat instead of heading off to nap, take a bath, or simply enjoy a hot cuppa from start to finish.

  
  

  With an experienced doula on hand, there is a mindset shift I’ve seen happen time and time again. Having someone trustworthy available, whose focus is to give you the care you need in a professional capacity has helped many of my mamas switch off and give themselves permission to rest and take care of themselves.

  
  

Is it right for you?

Whatever support is needed, whether for a short time or a longer period, I am here to help make these early weeks a deeply nourishing and positive experience for the whole family.

If you would like to explore your postpartum doula care options further, I would love to hear from you.

You can get in touch with me using the button below. We will work together to find the most supportive solution for you and your family.

Get in Touch