about: doulas | moonshadowdoula

My Philosophy:

It is my goal to support you in this time of change. Traditionally people were raised communally and watched others soothe, nurse, and overall care for babies. They would have watched the integral role of the extended family play as well.

Closer to home, the postpartum period in “western society” has become something of a time of exclusion, solitude and distance. People often times avoid emotionally and physically supporting new families, with the idea that they aren’t needed or wanted. Maybe their own experience of being alone during their life drives that or maybe its just a pure lack of awareness how to support a new, growing family. The thing is we -know- support is needed. We know that parents who have the kind of support they need and desire have lower incidences of depression; we have yet to fully turn the corner back to a time where new parents are surrounded with loving supportive people. My goal is to work myself “out of a job” meaning when I leave you, each day, and at the end of our contracted time together that you are more confident and empowered to care for your new family!

This is indeed a time of transition. It usually will feel like the road is bumpy and long with no end in sight. We sometimes get trapped in the mindset that what is happening right now will continue to happen foever - and it just isn't so. When you look back on all of this, it is my hope you will look back with joy and happiness at one of the best, most rewarding times of your life.

What is a doula?

Doula – A Greek word meaning "woman’s servant".

There are a variety of different types of doulas.

Antepartum doulas support mom during pregnancy - oft times antepartum care is needed or desired with special circumstances or high-risk pregnancy.
Birth doulas support mothers and spouses/partners during the birth.
Postpartum doulas support the whole family, during the postpartum period. This type of doula can be especially helpful with multiples and women healing after a cesarean section birth - but women with vaginal births and one baby can benefit greatly as well.

Speaking specifically on postpartum doulas this comes from the CAPPA website:

Postpartum Doulas DO:

Provide non-biased emotional, physical, and informational support during the postpartum period
Encourage the family to seek care that reflects their values and needs
Models and teaches effective communication
Encourage informed decision making
Support the physical and emotional healing of the mother
Provide information on care options and resources for the mother and newborn
Support and assists with infant feeding
Educate the family on newborn care and characteristics
Provide support to the new mother’s partner and/or family
Assist with household organization
Refer to healthcare professionals when support requires clinical assessment, a need for prescription, or medical diagnosis

Postpartum Doulas DO NOT:

Diagnose medical conditions
Interpret medical diagnoses or clinical results
Prescribe or administer treatment of medical conditions
Perform clinical procedures
Take over complete care of the infant
Transport any family members
Stay alone with babies or other children
“Sleep train” babies
Act as a housekeeper or nanny

Research tells us that women who experience postpartum support from Doulas have:

Greater breastfeeding success
Greater self-confidence
Less postpartum depression
Greater feelings of support for and from the partner, which can have a significant impact on their partner's own experience
Lower incidence of abuse than those who do not have a Doula
Timely referrals to competent, appropriate professionals and support groups
More education on what to expect from a newborn
Increased baby-soothing skills
Greater sense of communication and bonding with their infant
Better coping skills

Greater sense of communication and bonding with their infant

Better coping skills