More women today are turning to natural childbirth as an alternative to a hospital experience with an obstetrician. There are many kinds of doulas to assist with prenatal health, labor and birth, as well as time post-partum. A doula does not have a medical degree but does have training and experience providing care for newborns and mothers right after childbirth.
Postpartum Doula: What They Do
So what does a postpartum doula do for you? They can help you do many things to transition into parenthood, including caring for you and the baby, cooking, light housework, babysitting, errands and breastfeeding help. The doula’s role may change every day but the focus of their role is to educate you. Postpartum doula support may last for only one or two visits after the baby is born or you may choose to keep a doula for a few months.
Postpartum Doula: What They Don’t Do
It’s important to understand what a postpartum doula will not do for you, however. Doulas do not treat postpartum depression and instead create a comfortable and supportive environment for mother and baby. They also do not offer medical services or care, as they are not certified nurses or physicians. If you want medical care, you may want a certified nurse midwife.
Postpartum Doula: What They Do
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