What is the Value of Postpartum Support
As we celebrate Doula Week March 22nd - 28th, 2024, it's time to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of childbirth – doulas. While the term "doula" may still be unfamiliar to some, their impact on the birthing experience is profound and far-reaching. From providing emotional support, to offering evidence-based guidance, doulas play a vital role in empowering mothers and families throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. In this article, we delve into the essence of what it means to be a doula, exploring their unique contributions and the transformative effect they have on the journey to motherhood. Join us as we honor and celebrate the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to supporting and advocating for maternal health and well-being.
The journey into motherhood is a transformative and profound experience that brings with it a multitude of emotions, challenges, and changes. The period following childbirth, known as the postpartum period or the fourth trimester, is a critical time for both the physical and emotional well-being of the new mother. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the essential role that postpartum support plays in ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Let us explore the value of postpartum support by highlighting its importance in promoting maternal recovery, bonding, mental health, and overall family well-being.
Within our society, numerous new moms are fed constant products and see happy pictures all surrounding their new baby. What they don’t see are the realities of postpartum – what to expect, what happens, and how to care for themselves once they arrive at home. With our families now spread out and next to nonexistent villages, new parents are left on their own - in trenches - insufficiently equipped for this significant life transition. This causes them to experience a sense of isolation. This is where the doula and the role of a doula comes into play. In traditional times, when a woman had a baby, her family and friends who had previous experience with babies would help her out. But in today’s society, this kind of help isn't always available when needed. This is where the doula's job comes in - to step in and give the help and support that's missing.
What is a Postpartum Doula?
A postpartum doula provides nonmedical postpartum care (DONA-Postpartum-Position-Paper-FINAL) to new moms and their families after childbirth. Doulas help support moms with their physical recovery, making meals and doing light chores. They’re also there emotionally, providing a safe place for moms to talk about their feelings and worries. Doulas are trained in postpartum adjustment, newborn care and breastfeeding basics. The doula is a huge support for moms as they adjust to being new parents. The doula job is to be near mom but is limited to giving her medical advice. The doula will listen but encourage new parents to seek the help of medically trained professionals when needed. Medical professionals who are more skilled in whatever problems or concerns parents may have should be a part of the support village. Doulas aren’t there to diagnose or treat instead they teach and guide new parents.
The Role of the Postpartum Doula - Why You and Your Family Need a Postpartum Doula
The main goal of a postpartum doula is to help new moms and families feel comfortable and confident after having a baby. The doula goal is to help with the transition by giving reliable information and reassurance by literally ‘mothering the mother’. This book was by far my favorite doula reading...I literally needed and had this for myself.
When the new baby arrives, the doula comes to the home to help during the fourth trimester after birth. They teach and support without judging, offering assistance with taking care of the baby and getting mom and supporting family members into the groove of having a new baby around. If mom has any concerns the doula is there to refer mom to her primary care provider or in the case of breastfeeding difficulties a lactation consultant. The doula protects new parents from unwanted advice or in some cases advice that goes against mom’s wishes. Doulas are there to build confidence in new moms and help them through the mental gymnastics that happens after giving birth. They also help friends and family understand and respect the new parents' choices. By showing that they believe in the parents' abilities, the doula helps them feel confident. The doula's support boosts parents' natural ability to care for the baby and encourages them to do their best.
By providing nurturing care to the mother, the doula helps the new mom heal from pregnancy and childbirth. This allows her to devote her attention to forming a strong connection with her newborn. With the doula around, parents can confidently care for their kids, knowing they have unbiased assistance and an extra pair of hands whenever required. This support not only aids parents, but also helps siblings and older children warmly welcome the new baby into the family. While also helping the family create a new dynamic that works for everyone involved.
As Doula Week comes to a close, it's essential to reflect on the invaluable role that doulas play in the journey of childbirth. Doulas are not just birth companions; they are pillars of support, advocates for empowerment, and sources of comfort during one of life's most transformative experiences. Their dedication to providing personalized care, emotional support, and evidence-based information enriches the birthing experience for mothers, partners, and families alike. So, as we bid farewell to Doula Week, let's celebrate and honor the tireless work of doulas everywhere, whose unwavering commitment to maternal health and well-being leaves an indelible mark on the lives they touch.
Did you have doula support during birth or postpartum? Share your experience with us.