Mothering the mother

Emotional and physical care following birth – maybe mum needs to check in and talk about how she feels about her birth, whether things went the way she wanted to – talking to someone about it can be a great source of support. Mum will often need physical support in the postpartum period, whether she had a difficult birth, a c-section, a long labour – maybe she could do with someone running her a bath, getting her a drink when she is breastfeeding, taking her up a sandwich in the middle of the night, helping her into the shower or passing the baby to her to feed.

Breastfeeding

Support with positioning techniques, getting a deep latch, reassuring mum, providing fact based information, encouragement for mum and dad, talking through any concerns and referral if needed.

Siblings

A Postpartum Doula can be there to make lunch for older siblings, entertain them whilst mum is resting or looking after the newborn whilst mum spends time with siblings.

House organisation

A Postpartum Doula might engage in light housework such as putting a wash on, folding laundry, lists of errands or appointments that the family need to make, greeting visitors, making light meals, reminding the family about GP appointments and so on.

Newborn care

Assistance with bathing, changing, soothing, wearing baby in a sling whilst mum has a rest.

Have I missed any? Are there any others that you can think of?