FAQ series: What ages do you work with?

When do you start working with families?
Do you have a cut-off age when you no longer will work with a family?

I get these questions al the time when I am talking to families who are considering hiring me as their postpartum doula. My answer is- it depends.

*Some families are looking for support as soon as they come home from the hospital. I am usually able to start within a day or two if you let me know that is what you want.

*Some families have grandparents visiting or partner work leave and don’t feel the need for support right away. They may prefer to start a few weeks later. This is a great option for easing that transition so one parent isn’t suddenly left alone with baby all day every day or making sure that both parents can get some sleep at night as daytime demands increase.

*Some families just need a little bit of help or an occasional night off to get them through. A good night’s sleep is a great gift! Others may need support for longer, for any number of reasons.

*Mental or physical health, a demanding job, multiple babies, and little to no outside support are all reasons why families may choose to work with a postpartum doula several times a week for several months.

*My focus is on transitional support, but the transition takes different amounts of time for different people. I do not provide long-term support but I can help families in their search for childcare or other supports going forward. I love to work myself out of a job and see families confidently moving on into their new normal.

*I also support families when special needs arise anytime in the first year. I have helped clients when one parent must travel away from home overnight, for example, or if there is a temporary medical issue that prevents the parent from being able to fully care for their child.