What is a postpartum doula?

A postpartum doula is a non-medical support person trained in the needs of a family within the first few days, weeks and months after the arrival of a new baby. It means I’m your go-to on all things new baby and how to settle into your new family roles. I provide practical, emotional, and educational support to the entire family. I provide breastfeeding support. I assist with newborn care like bathing, diapering, feeding, and soothing. I help with the physical and emotional recovery after birth. I provide opportunities for you to rest. I help take care of practical tasks like folding laundry and prepping dinner. I answer your questions and help you feel empowered in your decisions. I direct you to the appropriate resources when needed. I’m here to instill you with confidence and to make your transition as a new family as seamless as possible.

Who typically hires a postpartum doula?

The short answer: families who want to have extra support during those first few days, weeks, and months following the arrival of baby.

The long answer: first time parents, parents of a premature baby, parents of multiples, parents unsure of how to handle adding a new baby to their already busy families, moms who had a challenging delivery, parents of a baby with special needs, families with no parents or grandparents around, parents who have never cared for a baby before, and parents who are feeling uncertain of how they handle it all on their own. As you can see, there is no typical client. A postpartum doula is an extra pair of hands to help, an extra set of ears to listen, and an extra shoulder to lean on. If you have any questions about whether you would benefit from a postpartum doula, please reach out.

What are the benefits of hiring a postpartum doula?

A postpartum doula is trained to understand what new babies - and new families - truly need. Having knowledgeable, experienced, and non-judgmental support after the arrival of a new baby helps parents to better adapt to life as a new family. Studies show that women who experience support and care from family, care providers, counsellors and peer groups have greater breastfeeding success, greater self-confidence, and less instance of postpartum mood disorders. A postpartum doula is an invaluable member of a new family’s support team. For more specific research related to support and care after birth, I have attached a link to a DONA position paper on the postpartum doula’s role in maternity care.

https://www.dona.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/DONA-Postpartum-Position-Paper-FINAL.pdf

What’s the difference between a postpartum doula and a baby nurse?

A baby nurse focuses solely on the new little one whereas a postpartum doula is focused on the entire family. I’m here to help educate, guide, and support all of you as you transition as a family. Baby will be well cared for, and all family members will feel confident in their new roles.

How do I know if you’re the right postpartum doula for my family?

The postpartum period is a special time for new families and it is vital to have support that aligns with your needs. Ideally, before baby arrives, we will have an initial meeting to establish if we are a good match. I’ll be seeing you in intimate, vulnerable states, and I can only do my work effectively if you’re comfortable with me. You should feel empowered in selecting your postpartum doula. There is no harm in interviewing as many doulas as it takes in order to find the right connection.

Will my postpartum doula stay forever?

While I won’t stay forever, I will stay until you’re in your groove. By the end of my time with you, you will feel empowered and prepared as a new family. If for any reason you feel you need more time, we’ll find a solution together to make sure you are feeling comfortable in your new roles.

What kind of training do you have?

I completed my DONA International Training in October 2020. I have a BA with Honours in Psychology. I am also First Aid CPR-C & AED certified.

What kind of hours do you offer?

Your family’s needs are the main driver in which type of schedule we will select. Typical shifts range from 4-10 hours in length, but can be extended if needed. Based on my availability, I offer early morning, daytime, evening, and overnight care. We’ll work together to find the best schedule for your needs.

How much do your services cost?

Pricing varies based on the hours selected. Please contact for further details.

How do I hire The Dolce Doula?

It all starts with a message! Once you make contact, we’ll set aside a time to chat and make sure that I’m the best fit for your family as your postpartum doula.