Who: A postpartum doula supports birthing parents, adoptive parents, and parents through surrogacy — along with their families and support systems.

What: Postpartum doulas provide non-medical support, companionship, and practical help during the early weeks of life with a newborn. This often includes:

• Newborn care guidance

• Sibling adjustment support

• Light household organization

• Meal preparation

• Emotional support & space to process the birth experience

Doulas offer evidence-based information on:

• Infant feeding

• Physical & emotional recovery from birth

• Typical newborn behavior (yes, even poop talk!)

• Resources & referrals to local providers if needed

Postpartum doulas can also help families prepare for life after the baby arrives, creating postpartum plans and realistic expectations for the fourth trimester. Support is available during the day, or overnight to help the whole family get more restful sleep.

When: Typically, postpartum doulas support families during the first 12 weeks after birth, also known as the fourth trimester. But support can begin even before the baby arrives, helping families prepare, plan, and to establish relationships with doula.

Where: Postpartum support usually happens in the family’s home, but doulas can also:

• Visit families in the hospital

• Accompany parents to medical appointments

• Help with outings or errands

• Provide support at when (and where) extra hands are helpful

Why: Because parents deserve support. No one is supposed to do this alone! The early days and weeks with a new baby can be joyful, overwhelming, exhausting, and everything in between. A postpartum doula offers unbiased care, evidence-based information, and compassionate support to help families feel empowered, seen, and cared for.