Why you need a Postpartum Doula
Research evidence shows that the services of a postpartum doula can, ease the transition that comes with the addition of a new baby, improve parental satisfaction, and reduce the risk of mood disorders. Your postpartum doula will be an important part of your life for a short time. It is important that you find someone with whom you feel completely comfortable. You will be considering not only skills and competency, but also personality and style.
I help you ease into motherhood by providing both emotional support and practical advice on newborn care and infant feeding. I am able to help with various household tasks, allowing the mother more time to enjoy and bond with her newborn. I am not a "baby nurse" which typically focuses on the newborn alone. As a postpartum doula, I focus care on supporting the parents, so that they can best care for their new baby. I help the mother in a way that allows her to rest when her baby rests. Most importantly, I will adjust my services to meet the particular needs of each family.
If you would like to meet me in person, I'd be happy to set up a 30-minute interview in your home. There is no charge for this interview, as it is our opportunity to explore whether we are a good match for each other.
Doulas DO:
- Offer education, nonjudgmental & emotional support, and companionship during the postpartum period.
- Assist with newborn care, family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tidying.
- Offer evidence-based information on infant-feeding, emotional and physical recovery from childbirth, infant soothing, coping skills for new parents, and make appropriate referrals when necessary.
- Run necessary errands: shopping, pharmacy, etc.
- Help with care of other siblings.
- Accompany mother and infant to doctor appointments.
- Assist with the care of multiples.
Doulas DON'T:
- Perform medical care such as diagnosis or treatment, for mother or baby.
- Pressure parents to adhere to a particular style of baby care.
- "Take over" baby care for mother or father.
- Do heavy cleaning: vacuuming, bathtubs, etc
Back-Up Doula
I make myself available to you by your 39th week of pregnancy. However, there is always the possibility of unforeseen circumstances (premature delivery, illness, etc.) which could prevent my availability to you.
I work with a number of back-up doulas of similar style and philosophy who are available should I not be. They are all Certified Doulas. If I or my back-ups are unable to provide services as agreed, I will refund your deposit in full.
Fees
I'm available for postpartum care on an hourly basis. I have a daily minimum of 5 hours and maximum of 8 hours (exceptions can be made). I can start when you and your baby arrive home from the hospital, but can also provided services shortly after if family will be helping you the first week. I'm generally off on evenings and weekends, but will make exceptions for special circumstances.
An in-home consultation will be scheduled at your convenience before the birth of the baby. At this time, we will go over all of your questions regarding my services and fees. I require a non-refundable deposit of 50% of your anticipated services to reserve your space. Full payment is required when services begin.
Additional days can be added to your contract providing I have available time open. You will be billed for any additional time requested.
Happiest Baby on the Block Class
I teach the Happiest Baby on the Block class developed by Dr. Harvey Karp. I've been using the "5 S's" in my practice with huge success. I wanted to empower parents to do the same, so I became a certified teacher. Parents will learn skills on how to comfort and soothe their fussy & crying babies.
Classes include information on:
- The Missing 4th Trimester
- The Calming Reflex
- The 5 S's
- The Cuddle Cure
- and so much more
Every parent will go home with the Happiest Baby on the Block DVD which includes "Soothing Sounds" music.
Class sessions range from 90 - 120 minutes - $40
Classes available for a group or one on one at your home or mine. I highly recommended you take the class before your baby is born.
Miracle Blanket Sales
I recommend the Miracle Blanket for all of my clients, I believe it is the best Swaddle Blanket on the market today. Some of the benefits of using it are:
Helps fussy babies sleep great
Helps easy fussiness for any baby
Aids in prevention of facial scratches
- Helps babies sleep better on their backs
- Helps stop twitches that wake your baby
- One size fits all up to four months
- 100% high quality cotton
I offer many colors to choose from. I can ship to you for an addition cost or you can pick up at my home for free. Pricing is:
One Miracle Blanket for $30 or Two Miracle Blankets for $50
Serving the Orange County & Long Beach area
Voted 2010 Postpartum Doula of the Year
Doula Association of Southern California
