Benefits of a Postpartum Doula:
- Greater satisfaction with postpartum period
- Quicker birth recovery
- More likely to eat healthier and sleep more
- More confidence in parenting and childcare
- Less stress and anxiety
- More positive opinion of baby
- More affectionate to baby
- Less incidence in postpartum mood disorders
- Higher breastfeeding success rate
Role of a Postpartum Doula:
- Supports the family through early transitional days and weeks
- Assists with early breastfeeding
- Provides information on normal newborn behavior and development
- Provides guidance and help with newborn tasks such as diapering, bathing, cord care, dressing, feeding, burping, etc.
- Provides respite care
- Prepares light meals, runs errands, performs light housekeeping
- Care of siblings
- Helps parents process birth
- Works with extended family members