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We are thrilled to have wonderful, compassionate, and skilled postpartum doulas in the Madison Doula Collective. Emily Clark, Alli Ryan, Margaret Romano and Hannah Bernard-Donals provide support to women and their families after the baby is born; continuing to "mother the mother" in the amazing (and sometimes overwhelming) first months as parents to a new baby.

What does a postpartum doula actually do?

What a postpartum doula does changes from day to day, as the needs of the family change. Postpartum doulas do whatever a mother needs to best enjoy and care for her new baby. A large part of their role is education. They share information about baby care with parents, as well as teach siblings and partners to “mother the mother.” They assist with breastfeeding education. Postpartum doulas also make sure the mother is fed, well hydrated and comfortable.

The goal of a doula is to nurture the parents into their new roles. As they experience success and their knowledge and self-confidence grow, their needs for professional support should diminish.
 (taken from DONA's postpartum doula FAQs)

More specifically -

  • Non-judgmental support as needed from immediately to 12 weeks postpartum

  • Scheduled visits in your home, at times that work best for your family

  • Assisting and observing early breastfeeding; answering questions, helping with latch and positioning, and referring to a lactation consultant if needed.

  • Bottle-feeding support, if needed.
  • Help establishing a support network and finding other mothers/families to connect with

  • Answering routine non-medical questions (“Is this normal?”)

  • Phone and email support

  • Caring for your newborn in your home while you rest, take a shower, or spend time with your other children/partner

  • Caring for other children in your home while you rest, take a shower, spend time with your partner, or newborn

  • Support while learning to care for your newborn (diapering, organization, sleep, etc)

  • Help with household organization, baby’s laundry and/or light cleaning and meal preparation

  • Listening to and assisting in processing of your birth story

  • Referrals to local resources when appropriate
  • Overnight care

Some things postpartum doulas DO NOT do:

  • Give medical advice

  • Give advice about lactation beyond routine early questions

  • Take care of your baby or other children without you in the home

  • Heavy housework such as mopping, bathrooms, yard work

More information:

- A look at how other cultures take care of mothers postpartum

- Dads/partners and postpartum doulas