Postpartum Doula Misconceptions

Postpartum Doula Misconceptions By Beth Youmans, BA, PCD(DONA), ICBE

Misconception #1     A postpartum doula is only for women in crisis

True, there are times when a postpartum doula is hired to help someone cope with a difficult situation, such as feeling overwhelmed, coping with postpartum depression or working through a breastfeeding issue, but the vast majority of postpartum doulas are hired before the birth. If so, the postpartum doula can more effectively help the parents gently transition through the fourth trimester and in most cases avoid postpartum difficulties.

I have encountered situations where it was likely that women might suffer from postpartum depression or have breastfeeding issues, but the support of a postpartum doula right from the start aided in avoiding serious issues. Just as having a birth doula does not necessarily insure the desired birth outcome, the chances of achieving certain goals are much more likely with the right support.

Misconception #2    A postpartum doula is a glorified housekeeper

If this were true I would make a terrible postpartum doula! The majority of my time is spent helping with breastfeeding, giving the parents a break to nap, making sure they are nourished and hydrated, teaching baby basics including how to carry their infant, fielding questions and concerns and making referrals to professionals and support systems in the community when appropriate. Yes, some of my time is spent tidying, however, the majority of my time is spent in direct support of the family—educating, empowering and encouraging.

Misconception #3   A postpartum doula is a babysitter

This is anything but the truth! I do not take over the primary care of a newborn or other children, rather I am there to coach the parents during the postpartum season; to encourage, nurture, educate and empower them to a place of steady confidence.  Yes, I do care for the newborn or other children for short spells of time allowing parents the opportunity to nap or shower, but I do not solely care for them for hours on end. The postpartum doula’s motto is to work her way out of a job. I am there to help mom and partner become independent not co-dependent.

Misconception #4   A postpartum doula supports mom and baby; she is of little value to partner

While many partners are back to work within a week or two, whenever home s/he can count on encouragement and support from the postpartum doula who is often of help to grandparents and other family members that may be visiting.  Some specific ways of supporting partner during the postpartum season might be showing him/her how to bathe, diaper, swaddle, wear and/or soothe his/her new baby. Preparing a snack or meal, offering beverages, making sure s/he’s getting sleep, giving him/her time to reconnect with mom and running errands are ways to provide practical support. Checking in with him/her and listening with a nonjudgmental ear to his/her joys and concerns is a way to provide emotional support. It is important to remember that this is a season of adjustment for everyone; the postpartum doula is there to support each family member.

In summary, postpartum doulas help the new or growing family by providing emotional, educational and physical support in the weeks and possibly months following birth. Hiring a postpartum doula allows parents to rest, bond with their new baby, enjoy greater breastfeeding success, interact with older children and gently transition into life with a newborn.