While all postpartum doulas have their own unique way of doing things, this description of a day on the job for me is designed to give you an idea of what to expect if you decide to work with a postpartum doula.
For me, every visit starts with a check-in. I like to ask lots of questions because it’s important for me to understand where you are at and what you need. So I might ask
- “How are you feeling?”
- “How was the birth?”
- “How have things been since my last visit?”
- “Is there anything you are concerned about right now?”
- “When did baby last eat/fall asleep?”
- “What do you most want to get done today?”
For a morning or midday visit, I always make sure to check in and see if the parents have eaten anything yet today. Many times, the day so far has been all about taking care of baby’s or household needs, and breakfast for the adults hasn’t made that list. Once everyone is all set with that, we can start to tackle the other priorities of the day.
I like to get a load of laundry started near the beginning of my visit, so that it can be washed, dried, folded, and put away by the time I leave. Other common things that parents would like to get done during a visit are
- taking a shower
- washing and prepping bottles and pump parts
- doing dishes
- making phone calls
- preparing food for later
- going for a walk
- getting a nap
We work together as a team to make sure the parents’ needs are met, whether that is resting, spending time with baby, or doing essential tasks, while I am present to fill in the gaps.
Another area I often help with, especially for first-time parents is hands-on support with baby care tasks such as giving a bath, swaddling, and soothing. Parents with older children appreciate the extra set of hands so that they can spend more focused time with either the baby or an older child. Sometimes I’m there during nap time so that the parent can be sure of a break even if the newborn doesn’t sleep when the older child does. For other families, the evening chaos of dinner and bedtime routines is when they need the most support.
A less visible but even more valuable way that I support parents is through listening and reassurance as they navigate all the changes that becoming a new parent entails. Some moms just want someone to talk to, whether about their birth story, the changes they are personally experiencing, their concerns about the baby’s behavior, or relationship challenges. There are countless reasons why new moms might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or guilty, and I am always honored when they feel comfortable sharing some of those tough moments with me.
Although devalued in our culture, the effort it takes to make time for rest, nourishment, and bonding with your baby is well worth it. Historically, this is seen as an essential stage that is or was automatically provided in many communities. I’m here to help you figure out what that can look like in your life.
Let’s chat! Email me at heather@infantconcierge.com or book a virtual coffee date to talk in person.
