• I came across this great article and had to share it on my blog ..and the link to the article is at the bottom of this page:

    Postpartum doulas are knowledgeable professionals who assist families during the critical period immediately after the birth of their baby. They “mother the mother,” and offer physical, emotional, and informational support to the family, as well as practical help. The doula’s expertise in mother and baby care enables her to assist with postpartum comfort measures, breastfeeding support, non-judgmental guidance in infant care techniques, information on normal postpartum restoration, and family emotional assistance through this major transition. These doulas provide essential support during the modern postpartum experience, a time when many mothers today feel uninformed, isolated, and anxious. Traditionally, the postpartum period was a “nesting period,” when a new mother was attended to by other experienced mothers. They helped take care of her and her family so that the mother could focus on the vital tasks of postpartum recovery: emotional adaptation to great change, and getting to know her precious little one.

    Today few families have such support, and frequently become exhausted and overwhelmed by the immense work of becoming parents. Postpartum doulas gently guide and support families through this transition, so that they may get off to the best start with their new baby. 

    The practical help that is included with a postpartum doula’s services vary, but most doulas make simple meals for the family, comfort and diaper the baby, answer the phone and door, and take care of the baby and any siblings while the parents nap, shower, or take a much-needed break. Some doulas will assist with laundry, errands, or light housekeeping as well.

    The doula is not a maid though, nor is she a nurse. She leaves diagnoses and clinical procedures to medically trained personnel, but will make referrals to a medical professional if she notices something of concern. However, it is commonly felt that a doula can help a mother stay healthy, and reduce her chances of postpartum complications. She does this by educating the mother and enabling her to focus on her recovery from birth, and to rest as much as possible. Doulas keep the mother well nourished and hydrated, and help to reduce incidences of sleep deprivation and postpartum depression. Studies have shown that with the help of a postpartum doula, breastfeeding duration is increased, while feeding problems and depression decrease. Also, parents report feeling more confident and less stressed or anxious.

    Would you consider hiring a postpartum doula? Or if you have used one in the past, what was your experience like?

    • http://www.momaroo.com/724540502/how-a-postpartum-doula-can-help-you/

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