Need a Postpartum doula?
meet your doula
What is a Postpartum doula?
A Postpartum Doula is a trained professional who offers invaluable support to new parents during the postpartum period, which encompasses the first 12 weeks after birth. Unlike a Birth Doula who assists during the birthing process, a Postpartum Doula concentrates on easing the transition into parenthood. Their role is multi-faceted, encompassing emotional encouragement, practical assistance with newborn care and chest/breastfeeding, and educational guidance on various aspects of postpartum recovery and infant well-being.
Emphasizing a holistic approach, Postpartum Doulas provide emotional support by addressing the unique challenges and adjustments that new parents may face. Their practical assistance extends to tasks such as diapering, feeding, and light household chores, contributing to a smoother integration of the new family member. Additionally, Postpartum Doulas serve as a wellspring of information, offering insights into newborn care, chest/breastfeeding techniques, and self-care practices. Through their compassionate and knowledgeable presence, Postpartum Doulas play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for families during this significant life transition.
It's important to note that doulas are not medical professionals, and their role is complementary to that of healthcare providers.
Postpartum doula practice:
The Postpartum Doula practice encompasses a range of supportive services aimed at aiding families during the postpartum period, typically within the first 12 weeks after birth. Central to their practice is emotional support, where postpartum doulas provide a compassionate and understanding presence for new parents as they navigate the challenges and emotional changes that accompany the arrival of a baby.
Practical assistance is a key component, involving hands-on help with newborn care, chest/breastfeeding, and light household tasks. Postpartum doulas often share evidence-based information and education related to infant care, feeding techniques, and postpartum recovery, empowering parents with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
The practice also involves fostering a nurturing environment for the entire family. This may include supporting older siblings in adjusting to the new family dynamics and encouraging self-care practices for parents. Postpartum doulas often collaborate with healthcare providers and can connect families with additional resources and community support. Overall, the postpartum doula practice is geared towards ensuring a smoother transition into parenthood and enhancing the overall well-being of the family unit during this significant life phase.
key aspects of a Postpartum doula practice:
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Providing a compassionate and understanding presence to help new parents navigate the emotional challenges that can arise during the postpartum period.
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Offering hands-on support with tasks such as newborn care, feeding, diapering, and providing guidance on infant soothing techniques.
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Assisting and guiding mothers with chest/breastfeeding, addressing common challenges, and ensuring a positive chest/breastfeeding experience.
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Sharing evidence-based information on postpartum recovery, newborn care, feeding, and other relevant topics to empower parents with knowledge.
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Encouraging and guiding parents in prioritizing self-care, including adequate rest, nutrition, and mental well-being.
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Assisting with light household chores to alleviate some of the practical burdens on new parents, allowing them to focus on bonding with their baby.
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Supporting older siblings in adapting to the new family dynamics and ensuring a smooth transition for the entire family.
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Providing information about local resources, support groups, parenting classes, and other community services that can benefit the family.
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Serving as an advocate for the family's needs and preferences within the healthcare system, ensuring effective communication with healthcare providers.
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Being culturally sensitive and respectful of diverse family backgrounds and traditions.
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Adapting to the unique needs and preferences of each family, recognizing that every postpartum experience is different.
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Collaborating with healthcare providers, lactation consultants, and other professionals involved in the well-being of the mother and baby.
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Effectively communicating with family members, providing guidance, and fostering open and supportive dialogue.
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Assisting in the development of a postpartum plan to address the family's specific needs and preferences during the early weeks or months after childbirth.
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Offering consistent support throughout the postpartum period to ensure a smooth and positive transition into parenthood.
“In giving birth to our babies, we may find that we give birth to new possibilities within ourselves.”
- Myla and Jon Kabat-Zinn
How I can support you
As a bilingual (English + Spanish) Certified Postpartum Doula, my primary focus is on providing dedicated support to parents during the transformative postpartum phase. I understand that this period is filled with unique challenges and adjustments, and my commitment is to be a steadfast source of guidance and assistance. With a compassionate and nurturing approach, I offer practical help with newborn care, chest/breastfeeding support, and various household tasks, allowing parents the space to rest and bond with their new baby.
My support goes beyond the physical aspects, as I also prioritize the emotional well-being of parents. I provide a listening ear, offer encouragement, and create a safe space for open communication. Whether it's answering questions about infant care, providing evidence-based information, or simply being there as a reassuring presence, I aim to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence they need during this significant life transition.
Recognizing the diversity of each family's needs, I tailor my support to align with individual preferences and cultural considerations. By fostering a sense of trust, understanding, and empowerment, my goal is to facilitate a positive and harmonious postpartum experience for parents, ensuring they feel supported and confident as they navigate the joys and challenges of early parenthood.
VIRTUAL Postpartum doula (full package)
This package includes:
Pre-baby doula education
Virtual coaching
Postpartum plan
Nutrition support
Virtual postpartum visits (1 hr sessions)
Newborn care support
Sleep and feeding assistance
Chest/breastfeeding support
Support for maternal recovery
Meditation sessions
Light yoga sessions
Postpartum care package (Full package)
Postpartum support begins as early as 72 hrs after birth
Options include the following:
Half-day support (4-6 hour support)
Full -day support (8-10 hour support)
Weekly support (8 hour shifts)
Postpartum services may include:
Newborn care
Sleep and feeding assistance
Support for maternal recovery
Chest/breastfeeding guidance
Household tasks
Light housekeeping
Cooking/meal planning, and
Any additional support required
Meditation sessions
Light yoga sessions
additional services (in person or virtual)
This package includes:
Group or private perinatal yoga classes (pelvic floor muscle focus, core focus, strength building, and much more!)
Mommy/daddy + Me yoga classes
Postpartum education workshop for you + partner
1:1 Wellness Coaching
How to transition into “parenthood” workshop
What I don’t provide:
Prenatal support (e.g. laboring positions, breathing techniques, etc.)
Medical advice or care
Drive to any appointments (I can accompany the parent)
Labor + Birth Support
Childcare/Nannying
Dog walking
TESTIMONIALS
“My doula was absolutely amazing! Desiring a vbac with less than 2 years from my c section sounded crazy to most but I knew it was possible. Andrea was so supportive throughout my whole pregnancy always sharing knowledgeable resources that empowered me to go after what I wanted. After reaching 40 weeks pregnant I felt extremely overwhelmed and I was ready to give up on my dream of an unmedicated birth Andrea always had the right words to reassure me that baby girl will come when she was ready and that we were both doing great. I am so glad I remained patient and listened to body and allowed my baby girl to come on her own at 41 weeks and 1 day. Delivering my baby girl was an amazing experience having the right support team really makes THE difference.”
-Erica Serna
I’m happy with the support received during birth. Andrea is great in giving emotional support! What stood out to me is how Andrea stayed for a while after birth and really took care of what I needed and what baby needed so my partner can rest.
-Shamara Jolley
“My overall experience with my doula was a 10/10! I will forever be grateful for her ability to keep me grounded while in active labor. My doula was very hands on when it came to pressure points & massages to relax me. She was very knowledgeable and made me feel comfortable when asking questions even after birth. I will most definitely recommend Andrea as a doula to all my friends & family members.”
-Karen Serna
“My postpartum support helped me tremendously because it gave me time to take care of myself.”
- Cindy Tran