Neither a nanny nor a nurse, a postpartum doula is really a cultivator of family‑infant bonds. Each doula has her own style. Mine is based around personal strengths in communication, intuition and building trust — and a belief that a little supportive caring can go a long way in giving parents the freedom to develop a parenting style all their own. My postpartum services may include:
- Assistance with feeding: breast, bottle and/or pumping.
- Assistance with newborn care such as diapering, swaddling, bathing and burping.
- Demonstration of newborn soothing and calming techniques.
- Helping with childcare so that new parents can shower, nap or eat.
- Organizing the home — setting up feeding and diapering stations around the house and sorting through newborn clothing and accessories.
- Accompanying families on outings such as to the doctor’s office or grocery store.
- Helping older siblings to adjust and participate in the care of the new family member.
- Meal planning and preparation.
- Light housekeeping including washing dishes and laundry.
- Running errands so that you don’t have to leave the house, e.g., grocery shopping, picking up baby supplies, prescriptions at the pharmacy.
- Sling and baby carrier instruction.
- Helping pets adjust to the changing family dynamics.
- Training nannies and other caregivers.
- Helping prepare for travel including packing and airport assistance.
- Assisting expectant mothers who are on bed rest awaiting the births of their babies.
- Registry planning to help decide what clothing and products you will need postpartum.
- Nursery setup and organization.