4 Essential Benefits of a Postpartum Doula

Giving birth to a child is one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences a woman can have. After childbirth, a woman's body and mind go through a lot of changes, which can be overwhelming as she also adjusts to her new role as mother. It is important to have support while navigating this sometimes, rocky phase of life. Postpartum Doulas have become increasingly necessary for several reasons. Firstly, people are living further away from their families and support systems. In the past, new mothers had the support of their own mothers, aunts and sisters who could offer hands on, practical care and emotional support. But today, miles and life circumstances do not always make this possible, and if they are able to come support, the support isn't long enough.

Many woman have demanding careers and need to return to work shortly after childbirth. They may not be expected to go into the office, but they are to be present virtually for meetings. Woman are expected to juggle it all, while their body is adjusting to a huge physical, emotional and hormonal change, and to do it with a smile on their face and every hair on their head in place. This is overwhelming for many women, who are finding that these demands take away from the time they need to properly care for themselves and their newborn.

Another disservice on the part of society in general, is that it does not educate families on what postpartum recovery realistically looks like. Many woman do not know what to expect or what kind of help they will need, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and isolation.

Lastly, the postpartum period is a crucial time for mothers physical and emotional health. A postpartum doula can provide the necessary support to help a woman transition into her new role of motherhood. They provide the physical, emotional and practical support necessary. Here are 4 ways a Postpartum Doula can offer guidance and support.

1. Breastfeeding support: Breastfeeding may seem natural, but it isn't without its challenges. A Postpartum Doula can offer support with proper latch and positioning of the baby, address concerns a mother may have and provide resources when further support is needed from a Lactation Consultant.

2. Newborn care: New parents can become overwhelmed with caring for a baby, especially if they have never cared for a newborn before. A Postpartum Doula can show parents how to diaper, bathe, swaddle and soothe their baby.

3. Emotional Support: The postpartum period will likely be an emotional, challenging transition. A Postpartum Doula offers emotional support by listening to a mother's concerns and provide reassurance. Postpartum Doulas can help mothers process their birth experience and offer support and appropriate resources if she is struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression.

4. Establishing routines: A Postpartum Doula can help educate parents on what is biologically normal for their baby to go through in areas such as sleep, feeding and development. Many are knowledgable in helping families establish routines that will naturally help a baby develop healthy habits while also being mindful of what their baby may still need at varies stages of their life.

In addition to the above benefits, Postpartum Doulas help care for a variety of household responsibilities. Some are offering light housework, meal prep and help with laundry so that the whole family can feel cared for and mothers and their partners can feel rested so they can bond with their newborn as well as adjust to their new roles as parents.

Clearly, a Postpartum Doula can provide valuable support to a mother and the family during the postpartum period to ensure a smooth and positive postpartum experience. Postpartum Doulas have become more necessary in today's society to provide essential support and care that new mothers and families need. We at My Happy Newborn are happy to join your journey and support you and your family's unique needs. We would love to connect and match you with one of our experienced and compassionate caregivers!