PREPARING FOR BABY
The Benefits of a Postpartum Doula Traditionally, women have been taken care of by other women in their community or family after giving birth. Some cultures have a period of several weeks where a new mother is expected to do nothing but rest and recuperate with her new baby. During this time, her mother, sister, cousins, aunts and other women in the community tend to her and the family’s needs. Today, many women do not have this support available and this is where a postpartum doula can be extremely valuable. The idea of having a labor/birth doula support you during labor and birth is very popular.
WHAT IS A POSTPARTUM DOULA? WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA DO? A postpartum doula is a trained, professional support person that can assist you after your baby is born. Her duties may include: •providing newborn care expertise •answering questions on any topic (diapering, bathing, feeding) •physically supporting you while you recover •breastfeeding counseling •preparing food •light housekeeping •taking care of other children •organizing your household •overnight newborn care •sleep consulting •emotional support, and more! Pregnancy and birth take a toll on your body and you need time to rest and recover. If you delivered via cesarean, you are also recovering from surgery. On top of this, you are getting to know and learning how to take care of your beautiful new baby. This phase can be overwhelming. You will be filled with love and joy, but also very, very tired.
We would love to talk to you about how our team can help you to have a peaceful postpartum experience! Contact us today to set up a consultation.
Picture this; you arrive home from the hospital after just giving birth to your sweet baby. You’re tired, hungry and your baby is fussing to breastfeed. You and your partner scramble to eat something fast while sleepily trying to get the baby to latch. Now imagine this same scenario - but this time you arrive home to meet your postpartum doula. She prepares a healthy meal for you and your partner and helps you finesse baby’s latch. She makes a warm cup of tea for you to drink while nursing your little one. When you are ready, you hand baby over to your doula for a diaper change and soothing while you head off to the peace and comfort of your own bed for a much needed nap. Sound like a fantasy? It’s not!
WHO HIRES A POSTPARTUM DOULA? Here are just a few examples: •First-time parents •New parents without a local network of family or friends •New parents who have a demanding career •Families with an older child or children at home •Families with a baby in the NICU •Parents of multiples We know that you want the best for your baby and your family. We are here to help you get settled in and recover so you can give them the best of you! Rest easy knowing that our doulas are here to nurture you and your family in the postpartum days. 16 • tampa bay
baby 2019
CHRISTIE COLLBRAN and AMY LEWIS Owners, Doulas Buddha Belly Birth Services (727) 489-4750 buddhabellybirth.com hello@buddhabellybirth.com