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Postpartum Doulas

Mother and Baby

Postpartum doulas are like your super chill best friend who actually knows what they’re doing. They swoop in after the baby arrives—when sleep is a myth, everything hurts, and you're suddenly responsible for a tiny human—and help you figure it all out without judgment or unsolicited advice from your cousin’s neighbor’s Facebook group.

These magical humans offer practical help (think: diaper changes, meal prep, and reminding you to shower), emotional support (yes, crying at 2 a.m. is normal), and evidence-based info so you’re not just Googling “Is this normal??” every five minutes.

And because the U.S. medical system basically high-fives birthing parents on the way out the hospital door and then disappears for six weeks, postpartum doulas can also keep an eye out for signs of serious stuff that shouldn’t be brushed off.

 

Just to be clear, postpartum doulas don’t replace doctors or nurses. They’re more like the calm, capable co-pilot on the wild ride of new parenthood, making sure you feel supported, seen, and slightly less like you’ve been hit by a truck full of diapers.

Image by Marek Studzinski

Practical Support

  • Help with baby care
    – Feeding (breast or bottle)
    – Diaper changes
    – Soothing a fussy baby
    – Starting healthy sleep routines

  • Support around the house
    – Light cleaning
    – Meal prep
    – Running errands
    – Making sure you eat, rest, and breathe

  • Assist with postpartum recovery
    – Tips for healing after birth
    – Support with self-care
    – Help spotting signs of complications (like too much bleeding or pain)

 

In short: They’re friendly, trained helpers who make the early days and months with a new baby feel less overwhelming—and help you feel more confident and cared for.

Emotional Support

  • Offer a calm, caring presence during a time that can feel overwhelming

  • Listen without judgment—whether you're crying, venting, or just need someone to talk to

  • Help you feel seen and supported as you adjust to life with a new baby

  • Understand the emotional ups and downs that can come from hormones, lack of sleep, and big life changes

Sibling and Family Support:

  • Help older kids adjust to having a new baby in the house

  • Offer tips for managing sibling jealousy or big feelings

  • Support the whole family during the transition

  • Give parents ideas for keeping older children involved and connected

Bottom line: Postpartum doulas are there for the whole family—not just the baby.

Image by Anthony Tran
Mother Breastfeeding Baby

Feeding Support (Breast, Bottle, or Both)

Feeding Support (Breast, Bottle, or Both):

  • Help with breastfeeding basics—like positioning, latching, and comfort

  • Offer tips for getting through common challenges (sore nipples, low supply, etc.)

  • Support parents who are formula feeding or doing a combo—no judgment, just help

  • Watch for signs of feeding issues and let you know if extra support might be needed

  • Help you feel confident that your baby is getting what they need

Newborn Care Education

  • Teach you what to expect from newborn behavior and development

  • Help you understand your baby’s cues—like why they’re crying or what they need

  • Share soothing techniques and calming tricks

  • Show you ways to bond, like skin-to-skin time or infant massage

Referrals and Resources:

  • Connect you with trusted local resources (lactation consultants, therapists, support groups, etc.)

  • Recommend professionals if you or your baby need extra care

  • Help you find the support you need, when you need it

Bottom line: Doulas help you understand your baby and guide you to more support if things get tricky.

Father with Newborn Baby

©2023 by Portland New Family Fund

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