What is a Doula?
The word “doula” derives from the ancient Greek term meaning “a woman who serves“. It is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
A Postpartum Doula
- Offers education, companionship and nonjudgmental support during the postpartum fourth trimester.
- Assists with newborn care, family adjustment, light meal preparation and household tidying.
- Offers evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing, coping skills for new parents and makes appropriate referrals when necessary.
Source: DONA International
Among the families who will benefit the most from a Postpartum Doula are:
First time parents
Mothers with surgical birth
Multiple babies (Twins, Triplets, Quadruplets and more)
Families with other siblings in the home
Women with a history of Depression
Surrogate and/or Adoptive Parents