You’ve been through nine long months of pregnancy and — finally — your baby is here. But the need for support doesn’t stop at that moment (hi, Fourth trimester). That’s where a postpartum Doula Can come in. We sat together with Karla P., a co-founder of NYC Birth VillageYou can learn about postpartum care and decide whether a doula would be right for you.
What is a Postpartum Doula?
A postpartum Doula is an unlicensed professional who offers support to families following the arrival of a baby. They provide support to families for six to eight weeks, and sometimes even longer. They may visit a few times per week during the first few weeks, then transition down to once a week as the parents get more comfortable, says Pippa. Your doula and you can decide together what time frame and schedule works best for your family and budget.
Worth noting that doulas aren’t just for biological, straight, or partnered parents, says Pippa. “We’ve had all sorts of different types of families [hire postpartum doulas]. Families, single parents, and people who have adopted are all represented. [and] LGBTQ families.”
What is the role of a postpartum doula?
Doulas are available to help with a variety of tasks, including infant care, support for parents and housework. Pippa says that doulas are different from other types of support because they care for the mother. “[Culturally] We are focusing on the baby, and we forget the physical and emotional transformation that moms have gone through. I wish our society was a little more open-minded. [more] revolved around the experience that the birthing person is going through.”
Pippa says that postpartum doulas are available for daytime (usually 3 hours) or overnight (usually 10 hour) visits. When it comes to infant care, they may help with…
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Food support includes Breastfeeding Pumping. Pippa points out that the focus should be on this in the early weeks following birth.
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Sleeping strategies. Especially during night visits with your postpartum doula, when they’ll focus on helping get you and the baby as much rest as possible.
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Techniques to soothe the mind. Pippa says that the support is most important after the first couple of weeks. “That’s where the little one starts to become a little bit more fussy … and that’s where families start to be running on fumes,” says Pippa.
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General wisdom and experience in infant care. They’ve done all of this before, so they can assure you that what you’re going through is normal.
When it comes to the mom and baby’s support system, they may help with…
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Take care of your recovery. Your doula can prepare padsicles, sitz baths, and nipple soaks — and generally make sure you are also a priority, says Pippa.
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Advocating for you at doctor’s appointments. Black women are at greater risk of being sexually abused. dismissed in the doctor’s office.
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Keep an eye on mental health issues. Pippa says that it’s like a postpartum depression. Plus, they can give you perspective that what you’re going through is normal. If you’ve had a traumatic childbirth, they can validate your experience and guide you through it.
What is the cost of a postpartum Doula?
It depends on where you are. In smaller cities, rates can range from $25 to 35 per hour. For larger cities, they can be anywhere between $35 and $65 an hour. In most cases, insurance companies don’t cover the costs, although Medicaid has The coverage of the program has been expanded Include doulas to several states. You may also be able use an HSA or FSA Depending on your plan, you can use the account to offset or cover costs.
Pippa is aware that the cost of doula services can be a barrier to many families. There are organizations that offer sliding scales and low-cost doula service, such as Health Connect OneThe program links community-based doulas to families in all parts of the country. They are essential for Black women and communities of color who face a variety of challenges. Higher maternal mortality rates Women of color are less likely to be abused than white women.
How can I tell if a doula for postpartum care is the right choice for me or not?
It is important to make a decision that you feel comfortable with. There are some things to think about, such as the cost. Your experience with childbirth is also important. While a postpartum doula can help whether it’s your first or third baby, they may be especially helpful if you’re a first-time mom or you’re expecting multiples.
You should also consider your support system. If you’re birthing a baby alone, it may help to hire a doula. Pippa suggests that hiring a doula is still beneficial even if you live in a village. “[Friends and family] They often have their own opinions based on their unique, and sometimes even singular experiences. Whereas a doula comes with a comprehensive set of background of not only training, but what they’ve seen working with a variety of families.”
How can I find the best doula for me?
Pippa suggests asking these questions of a prospective postpartum doula to find out if they are the right fit for your family and you.
Above all, Pippa notes that you want someone who comes with experience, an open mind, and who will support your and your baby’s needs.
theSkimm
There’s so much new moms are expected to know when they bring home their baby. It’s a tall order to try and learn on the job as you recover from giving birth. Although it may be expensive, hiring a babysitter can ensure you and your infant are well cared for.
This content is only for informational or educational purposes. This content does not represent a medical opinion or advice or a diagnosis or treatment for any condition.
