Frequently asked questions
What is a postpartum doula?
(From the DONA International website)
A postpartum doula:
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Offers education, companionship and nonjudgmental support during the postpartum fourth trimester
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Assists with newborn care, family adjustment, meal preparation, and light household tidying
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Offers evidence-based information on infant feeding; emotional and physical recovery from birth; infant soothing; and coping skills for new parents
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Makes appropriate referrals when necessary
What isn't a postpartum doula?
A postpartum doula is not:
- A housekeeper
- A babysitter, nanny, nurse, or wet nurse
- There to watch the baby so you can sleep through the night
- Able to dispense medications or offer medical advice
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A medical professional
Who can hire a postpartum doula?
Anyone who could use additional support and a helping hand – which is absolutely anyone bringing an infant into their home – can hire a postpartum doula. Families expecting multiples or with premature infants may find the services of a postpartum doula to be particularly beneficial. Adoptive families and nontraditional (gay, lesbian, single-parent) families may consider hiring a doula as well. Postpartum doulas also have training and experience in dealing with the special needs of families who have lost babies.
What is a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)?
A CLC has successfully completed a 45-hour evidence-based, comprehensive course and passed a comprehensive exam. The CLC credential signifies that the holder has demonstrated the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to provide breastfeeding counseling and management support to families who are thinking about breastfeeding or who have questions or problems during the course of lactation.
Can I purchase a gift certificate for an expectant family?
Absolutely! You can find information about purchasing a gift certificate on this page.
Why do you keep saying "family" instead of "mom"?
In traditional families, mom and baby are the star of the show when it comes to a doula's work. However, not everyone has a traditional family. And, more importantly, it's the entire family who benefits from the services of a postpartum doula. The entire family unit, including dads and older siblings, is of extreme importance.
What are your qualifications?
I have been certified as a lactation counselor through The Center for Breastfeeding and awarded by the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice. I have completed the DONA International postpartum doula training course and am on the path to certification. I am also the mother of two wonderful, healthy children.
What is this "boob geek" stuff?
I have been affectionately referred to as a "boob geek," and have chosen to adopt that title with honor. I am very passionate about breastfeeding and providing support and knowledge to breastfeeding mothers.
But my mom/grandma/aunt/sister/best friend will be around to help after the baby arrives. Why would I pay for a doula to be there, too?
Your mom/grandma/aunt/sister/best friend loves you and has your best interests at heart and has wisdom of her own to share, but she is not a neutral, nonjudgmental party. A postpartum doula listens to you tell your birth story 50 times, lets you cry about your stretch marks, and laughs with you when your postpartum hormones make you sensitive to ridiculous things. A postpartum doula understands and validates the challenges experienced by new parents and helps you figure out ways to be the best parent you can be. A postpartum doula has a huge toolbox of knowledge and resources to relieve some of the stress of what is the most wonderful but most challenging time of your life.