Who needs a postpartum doula? Or better yet; who deserves a postpartum doula? You and every woman who has just given birth deserves to be cared for. You deserve time to spend exclusively with your new child, and time to rest and recuperate, without household chores on your mind. A sympathetic ear from a caring professional is also helpful.
When should I begin to look for a postpartum doula? Between the 4th and 6th month is an ideal time to interview with your prospective doula. This allows you to focus on your birth, feeling secure in the knowledge that you have help in place for the first few weeks, after your baby is born. Any time right up to your ninth month is a fine time to call, please remember a postpartum doulas' schedule can fill up months in advance.
What if my baby is already here and I have discovered I need help? Call and we will do our best to provide you with this specialized care.
What is the difference between a postpartum doula, a nanny, and a baby nurse? A nanny normally cares for babies, and children exclusively. A baby nurse has medical training, also caring exclusively for the baby. A postpartum doula is a nonmedical profession. A postpartum doula specializes in the care of you, the mother, the household and siblings; offering help with the baby when needed.
I already have children, and am confident in my baby skills, how can a postpartum doula help me? Siblings need extra attention while you get to know your new child. Your doula will put together simple meals and perform light chores, such as, empty the dishwasher, for starters. They will also help you sort out the challenges a new family member can bring.
This is my first baby and I would like help with baby care. Postpartum doulas love newborn babies and it is our pleasure to offer guidance with everything from breastfeeding, to bath time, diapering and swaddling. They are also well educated in the current baby care techniques and child related topics. Your doula will be happy to care for your baby while you nap or shower.
How much will a postpartum doula cost? Throughout America, postpartum doula prices range from $15 to $35 per hour. In Colorado, prices are in the lower end of this range.
What if I can't afford the cost? Relatives, such as grandparents are often glad to pay for this much needed service. Groups, such as coworkers, or friends will sometimes get together to offer this wonderful gift. The financial savings of successfully breastfeeding versus formula will more than cover the cost of this professional care.
Will insurance pay for my Postpartum doula? Occasionally. The more people requesting payment for this highly specialized service, the more likely it is that insurance companies will pay.
Are postpartum doulas licensed, in the state, in the nation? At this time no license is necessary or even available. There are a few nationally recognized organizations that offer certification.* A doula must work in the postpartum field in order to become certified. Some doulas choose not to certify.
This is such a private time for my family, how can I be sure I will feel comfortable with a doula? Interview any doulas you are interested in, then call their past clients for references. Postpartum doulas work in many different homes in the course of a year. It becomes second nature to 'fit in' with many different styles of families.
Can hiring a postpartum doula reduce my risk of postpartum depression? While experts agree that sleep depravation and feelings of isolation often accompany postpartum mood disorders, having a doula in your home can lessen the cause of these symptoms; offering more opportunity to rest as well as someone to talk to. An experienced postpartum doula can, through observation on a regular basis, recognize the possible need for outside help, and offer referrals accordingly. At this point postpartum doulas cannot make the scientific claim to reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
The organizations currently certifying PPRDA doulas:
CAPPA Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association - http://www.cappa.net
DONA Doulas of North America - http://www.dona.org
Back to Top
