The Role of Postpartum Doula The importance of fostering good relationships between parents and children during the weeks immediately after birth is paramount. Not only will these early interactions help to shape how young families function and relate together in the months and years to come, they will also serve as a family's first memories of life with their new child. We must recognize too, that the transition to parenthood is a significant life event. The birth of each new child can have a lasting impact on the physical and emotional health of the mother. For these and other reasons, most new mothers and fathers appreciate the support of other knowledgeable women after the birth of the baby.
A postpartum doula is a supportive, non-judgemental companion with training and experience in providing postpartum care for new mothers as well as support and advice on breastfeeding and infant care. They offer a source of consistent encouragement and reassurance throughout the postpartum period when extended family members may not be available or live near enough to lend their help. Doulas bring a nurturing presence to the family home and serve as compassionate helpmates at the ready to lend a hand with errands and light household tasks such as preparing meals, grocery shopping, doing dishes, laundry and caring for siblings. In so doing, they afford new parents the much needed opportunity and peace of mind to attentively care for their newborn.
Most postpartum doulas are mothers themselves who enjoy motherhood and strive to encourage and teach families how to care for their own newborn children. They offer respectful assistance that is flexible to the needs of each family, gradually helping parents gain confidence and trust in their ability to meet their baby's needs. |
