What is a Postpartum Doula?

Postpartum Doulas care for new families in the first weeks after birth providing breastfeeding assistance, general family and household support, newborn care and instruction, mother care, emotional support and offer information on available resources.

Benefits*

	Increased chance of successful breastfeeding
	Reduced chance of maternal and newborn hospitalization from health complications due to informed care
	Less chance of maternal postpartum depression
	Mothers feel more secure and more in control
	Less maternal exhaustion, frustration, and apprehension during early weeks
	Parents have higher regard and increased sensitivity towards babies
	Reduction in unnecessary calls to pediatricians
	Greater participation in caring for baby from more confident fathers
	Dad back to work sooner with less anxiety
	Greater understanding of newborn emotional and physical needs and behavior
	Earlier bonding due to more confidence
	Paying for a doula provides relatives with a way to give constructive help

*From the article cited below

For more information:

What is a Postpartum Doula and What Does She Do?

The Postpartum Doula and the New Family

Mothering the New Mother by Sally Placksin

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