Do doulas offer support after the baby is born?
A birth doula stays with the laboring mother during the entire labor and for some time afterwards. She may assist with breastfeeding, showering, and walking around. She may offer help with the newborn, discuss the birth experience and offer advice on postpartum and baby care. Doulas often schedule a postpartum home visit several days after the birth. Discuss postpartum care with your birth doula during your interview. If you feel you would like even more assistance during the postpartum period, you may consider hiring a postpartum doula. They provide housekeeping assistance and care for the mother and baby in the weeks following birth. Postpartum is a very important time for mother and baby. Use these few weeks to rest and bond with your baby and accept plenty of help from friends, family or a postpartum doula.
