Frequently asked questions

AND DISCUSSION BLOG

What is a postpartum doula?

A postpartum doula is there for you as much as for your baby. I come into your home after birth to help with newborn care, feeding support (breast or bottle — not a lactation consultant, but can help you find one), light household tasks, and emotional support. My job is to make things calmer, easier, and less overwhelming while you get to know your baby and recover.

What does a night look like with your support?

I would typically arrive around 10 pm. First, we can have some time for you to catch me up on the baby and fill me in on everything the other professionals have advised you. This will be a time to express concerns, ask questions, or even sit and vent about any struggles you may be experiencing.

I would typically be set up on the couch with the bassinet next to me or in the nursery if there is a bed. I will be with the baby the entire night, tending to all of their needs. I will bring the baby to Mama when in need of feeding or bottle feed the baby, and Mom can text me when she's ready for me to bring her pump parts and collect the milk to put in the fridge.

Throughout the night, I will tidy up the baby room, do any baby laundry, wash the bottle and pump parts, and make sure everything is organized and prepared for an easy morning for the parents. I will also work on soothing the baby with a pacifier and helping them comfortably sleep without being constantly held, so the parents are able to rest better when I am not around. I usually make sure the baby is all set to rest in the bassinet next to the parents' bed and leave around 6 am.

My job is not just a night nanny and is to be tailored to the physical and emotional needs of each family and baby, so it is important for the parents to address all of their concerns and needs with their postpartum doula.

What happens if another one of your clients is sick?

If I have been in contact with anyone sick, then I will immediately call and tell you. I am fortunate to have a network of amazing, trusted doulas who will be happy to help you if they are available in the event I am not. I have them listed on the trusted referrals tab.

Do you provide help with breastfeeding?

I am not a lactation consultant or medical professional. I will bring the baby to you, change the baby, and burp the baby so you do not have to get up and do everything else in the night besides feeding. If there are any troubles with feeding or latching, I am more than happy to help find a lactation consultant near you.

Can we have the baby sleep in the room with us?

It is up to you where the baby sleeps. If you want the baby to sleep in the room with you, then we can have the monitor set up, and I can come and take them when needed. It is ideal for most parents to have them in another room so they can fully rest, but if you feel more comfortable with them near you, that is absolutely fine, and I have experience with this.

How do you handle privacy and social media?

Generally, I keep all babies off the internet with the exception of some close friends that I worked for, who were happy to let me use their baby as a model. I have had experience with families who asked me to sign an NDA because I was working with their friends. I am more than happy to keep everything as private as possible. I am also happy to take cute pictures at night to share with you, only so you don't feel like you're missing out on any special moments. Please let me know what makes you feel most comfortable

Are you okay with pets?

Absolutely! I love animals and am more than happy to have them snuggled up with me through my shift! The only thing I ask, if you have a dog that is struggling to not lick the baby's face then we may need to keep them in your room for the night as I want to be as safe as possible.

What are the next steps?

Once you have read my about me page, please feel free to give me a call or send an email and ask as many questions as possible! Let me know your expected due date and budget you are able to work with and let's see what we can do for you.