What is a Postpartum Doula?
A Postpartum doula is a trained, non-medical support person who provides mental, physical, emotional, and informational support to people and families during the fourth trimester, or the first three months after birth. Throughout most of human history, new parents had a community of family, friends, and others around when they welcomed a new child. These days, that’s not the norm, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic—not only are people more isolated, but they live further from their families and are busier in general. That makes support during the huge life transition of new parenthood significantly harder to come by. Enter Postpartum Doulas!
They have special training in lactation and baby care, but their focus is on helping the parent recover from birth and adjust to parenthood. You can think of a Postpartum Doula a little like a personal postpartum coach, there to help and cheer you on in the time directly after birth.
What does a Postpartum Doula do?
Postpartum Doulas work with you during those first moments at home, typically ranging from a couple weeks to a couple months. Postpartum Doulas provide unbiased, evidence-based information that will help you make decisions that work best for you family. Postpartum Doulas also create a safe space to provide you with emotional support and a nonjudgemental ear to listen. You will receive assistance with newborn care, light household tidying, food preparation, lactation, laundry and more. If any issues arise, we can refer you to local resources such as lactation consultants and pelvic floor therapists. Postpartum Doulas provide critical support during the often overlooked fourth trimester.
What does a Postpartum Doula NOT do?
Postpartum Doulas, even ones with medical backgrounds and certifications, do not diagnose medical conditions, give medical advice, or administer medications. We do not do heavy housekeeping such as deep cleanings or yard work. Our focus is on you, the mom, and your new baby, therefore we are not babysitters for other siblings.
What types of families do Postpartum Doulas support?
Raising Moms Postpartum Doulas support ALL types of families. Regardless of gender, marital status, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc. — you deserve a Postpartum Doula. Twins, triplets or more? You are covered.
I understand that Postpartum Doula services, in addition to all things baby, are an investment. I offer different packages in various price ranges to accommodate as many families as I can. One way to alleviate costs is to add my services to your baby registry!
There is a Postpartum Doula out there right now that can fit the needs of you and your family. Schedule a consultation with Raising Moms owner Maricel today!
Are Postpartum Doula services only for Moms?
While the name may be Raising MOMS, let me be clear, I am inclusive of all birthing persons, parents, and families regardless of religion, race, gender, or sexual preference. Bringing a new baby into your home comes with many challenges and all families are worthy and deserving of support! If you have cultural preferences you’d like to practice, pronouns or language you’d like me to use please let me know! I’m here to meet you where you are.
When should I hire a Postpartum Doula?
This depends on you and how you are anticipating your postpartum needs will be met. Some families hire a Postpartum Doula while they are still pregnant. Maybe a previous experience has encouraged them to secure a Postpartum Doula early on. Other families start their postpartum journey on their own and then recognize that they would benefit from a Doula or wanted to wait to see if they would require the support. The timing of when you hire a Postpartum Doula is completely up to you! Even if you do not hire one ahead of time, researching and knowing your options while pregnant can be helpful for when you end up searching for one after you give birth.
What does a typical schedule look like with a Postpartum Doula?
The work you and your Postpartum Doula do together can look different than someone else’s work with them. Each family’s needs are unique, therefore your experience and schedule with your Postpartum Doula will be unique and individualized to fit you and your needs. Depending on the Doula and their availability, you may have them do day or night shifts, ranging anywhere from a minimum of 2 hours long to 4 hours long. Some Doulas will even do longer if needed! You can choose to have your Doula with you once a week or several days a week; again, it’s completely between you and your Doula. For example, we have done three 2-hour day shifts a week with one family, and two 4-hour evening shifts a week with another family. It all depends on your needs, your doulas availability and offerings, and when you need support.
What about COVID precautions?
I believe that decisions about your body and your family are exactly that: YOURS. Maricel is double vaccinated, boosted and test frequently (both rapid and PCR). I’m happy to wear a mask in your home, around you and your family if that is your preference. If you have other requests or concerns, I’m happy to talk to you about them so please reach out! For more information regarding COVID-19, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Are overnight visits available?
Yes! I am an overnight labor and delivery nurse working 1-3 nights as week. With that being said, I have very limited availability. Overnight sessions are 6 hours long usually from 10PM – 4AM.
What is Raising Moms’ refund policy?
A deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking. The total balance is due by your first appointment. Deposits are non-refundable.
Does Raising Moms accept insurance?
Raising Moms does not accept insurance, HSA or FSA at this time.
Have questions that were not answered here?
I would love to hear from you!
Raising Moms 