FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference between a postpartum doula and a baby nurse?
In general, the sole responsibility of a baby nurse is to provide professional care to your new infant.

A postpartum doula offers expertise in new mother and newborn care and provides a quiet non-judgmental presence in your home. A doula may offer support in a variety of ways, including, for example, changing diapers, playing with big siblings, massaging the mother, and washing the dishes.

What is the difference between a postpartum doula and going to a Beit Hachlamah?
A Beit Hachlamah gives you the opportunity to rest and recover from your childbirth and take a break from the demands of caring for your home. Some women find it offers them a much needed break, though others feel lonely and can find the schedule too regimented. Also, it may be more challenging in a Beit Hachlamah to find the opportunity to connect with your baby in the healthy and loving way that you and your baby need and want.

A postpartum doula comes to you in your own home, allowing for the baby and mother to bond during those first few precious days and weeks. My goal is to pamper the new mother so that she has the time and energy to cuddle with her baby, put her feet up, and feel calm, in the comfort of her own surroundings.

What are your qualifications?
A postpartum doula does not need a qualification: a husband, sister, mother or friend can act as a doula for the new mother!

However, there are several organisations that offer certification. I am certifying with Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (www.cappa.net), as it offers me in-depth training in care of the newborn and the postpartum mother, and has an excellent international reputation.

In addition, I am a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (www.lamaze.org) and have been working as a childbirth teacher and birth doula since 2001.

When should I hire a postpartum doula?
Meeting with a postpartum doula while you are pregnant offers you an ideal opportunity to discuss what she can do for your family after you give birth. It is reassuring to know that you have taken care of this step and that your doula is ready and waiting to hear from you!

However, if you decide to hire a doula after you have given birth, you can call to arrange a meeting at any time. A postpartum doula is available to you whenever you would like extra support during the first year of your baby’s life.