What is a postpartum doula?
A Postpartum Doula is a trained, non medical professional companion who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible. The word doula, in greek, means a woman who serves.
Are Postpartum Doulas new to the world of birthing?
Decades ago, when births primarily occurred at home under the care of midwives, birthing and postpartum recovery were community efforts. Women welcomed the support of other women in their village or neighborhoods as they stepped into this new role. Many cultures still continue this practice but once hospital births became the primary method of delivery and our lives became more individualistic instead of connected as a community as it once was, many mothers struggled with the loneliness and uncertainty of motherhood. As we have learned more about the positive impact being in community has on the life of a mother and her baby, women are choosing to utilize these golden practices where doulas are chosen to walk alongside and support families during a major life transition.
Why did you want to become a Postpartum Doula?
I received my Bachelors degree in Human Development with a concentration in Family Studies. During my own postpartum journey, I felt like every mother deserved a team walking alongside her through postpartum. I discovered that Postpartum Doulas are the linchpin in the stories of women entering motherhood, no matter the stage, who serve, educate and celebrate who they are and who they are becoming through the identity shaping that occurs within motherhood. We are your cheerleaders as you learn to balance and reshape/rediscover. who you are in this new role. I am passionate about being the one who empowers the mother and encourages partnership and community for women because I know from my own experience, as a mother of two boys, that we need the advocacy and we deserve to know we aren’t alone.
It is my mission to help women gain confidence and skills in motherhood by providing companionship as well as practical and emotional support in the first year of postpartum.
What is your mission statement?
As a virtual doula, I provide informational, emotional and social support to birthing persons and their partners in the 12 weeks after birth. I can also facilitate communication with other members of your support team to ensure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions regarding your postpartum experience. I can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner, make suggestions for resources and referrals, and help facilitate routine establishment.
What is virtual postpartum support?