5 Reasons to Hire a Postpartum Doula

Sure, your family and friends may be able to help you when you bring your baby home. But adding the help of a postpartum doula to assist with your postpartum care can be an excellent option that’s beneficial to your whole family.

If you think family dynamics can make holiday get-togethers awkward, then you already know how hard it could be to set boundaries or keep emotions in check when you’re exhausted, caring for an infant, and healing from giving birth.

From Pathways to Wellness, here are 5 reasons to hire a postpartum doula and make your transition from pregnancy to motherhood a smoother one:

1. Doulas aren’t emotionally involved.
   Getting outside support and advice can help you find what feels right for you and your baby. A doula can also help you set boundaries and feel good about them, even when your family members don’t understand or agree with your choice.

2. Doulas offer support for mom.
   Your doula might be the only person who visits your home with no expectations. She’ll hold your baby so you can shower or eat, but she won’t be there just to cuddle the baby or take lots of pictures. She’s truly a support system to help you heal and care for your infant.

3. Doulas foster a judgment-free zone.
   A good doula will be a shoulder to cry on and a sounding board for your questions. She won’t judge you for your questions or decisions, but she will support you and will provide any information you need.

4. Doulas provide information, not opinions.
   Things have changed since you were born, so some information your mom or mother-in-law might offer is now considered unsafe, like baby’s sleeping position. A doula can provide best practices and the latest information to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your baby.
   
   You may also be interested in Chiropractic as a Solution for Breastfeeding Difficulties.

5. Doulas bring extra skills to the table.
   Different cultures have different postpartum traditions. Your family may need help carrying out those traditions by bringing in someone with different skills, like massage therapy. There are many ways in which your doula can complement your care team.

Your friends may mean well and want to help, but they don’t always know how. Or, you may not feel comfortable asking a friend or relative intimate questions about breastfeeding or postpartum healing. That’s where an impartial doula can assist, by providing sound information and compassionate care.

Learn more about the reasons to hire a postpartum doula in Pathways to Wellness.