A Postpartum Doula: Postpartum Care Is More Than Baby Care

A Postpartum Doula: Postpartum Care Is More Than Baby Care
by Doulacta

Welcoming a new baby brings so much excitement from friends and loved ones. Everyone wants to visit, to hold your baby, and to offer advice on how to care for them. And who wouldn’t want their baby to feel so loved?

However, we mustn’t forget about the parents.

You’ve just gone through the enormous experience of pregnancy and birth—and now you’re managing physical recovery, emotional changes, sleep deprivation, and the constant question: “Am I doing this right?”

Yes, most—if not all—new parents will ask themselves this question.

This is where a postpartum doula comes in. A postpartum doula’s priority is to nurture and support the new parents, so they feel confident and capable in their new role. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, this is a tender season full of change—and every baby brings something new.

A doula offers practical help, emotional support, and evidence-based guidance without pressure or judgment. They validate the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

So What Does a Postpartum Doula Do?

A postpartum doula supports families during the fourth trimester by visiting for a few hours at a time throughout the early days, weeks, and even months after birth. Their primary focus is on the birthing parent’s recovery and overall well-being. Support may include:

Feeding guidance —whether you’re breastfeeding, chestfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a combination.
Help with newborn care —teaching parents about diapering, bathing, soothing, and understanding baby’s cues.
Encouraging rest, hydration, and regular meals for the parents.
Answering questions and easing worries that naturally come with this new role.

Doulas also pay special attention to partners, helping them feel confident and involved. Even when the birthing parent is breastfeeding, the partner plays an essential role in caring for both the baby and the birthing parent—and a doula supports that dynamic.

In Conclusion

A postpartum doula “mothers the mother” (or birthing parent), while supporting the entire family. They help create a soft landing during a time that’s full of love, change, and vulnerability.

Even if you don’t hire a postpartum doula before giving birth, you can still reach out afterward for support. Doulas will walk beside you as you grow into your role with confidence, honoring your goals, your intuition, and your unique parenting style.

And remember, you are the best parent for your baby—and you deserve to feel supported every step of the way.

Bonus Tips from a Postpartum Doula

Interview a couple doulas
Each doula brings a unique personality and approach, so it’s important to meet with a few to see who feels like the right fit for your family. Talk to at least 2–3 to get a feel for who best matches your needs, personality, and schedule.
What to ask a doula during an interview
Ask the doula about their approach, availability, and the types of support they offer—such as prenatal visits, overnight care, daytime support, and meal prep, just to name a few. Also be sure to ask how they support partners, as their involvement is an important part of the postpartum experience, too.
Doulas have lots of resources and connections
Postpartum doulas are often well-connected in their local birth and parenting communities. They can offer trusted referrals to: Lactation consultants (IBCLCs), pelvic floor physical therapists, parenting classes, support groups, and more.
Preparing your postpartum care and space
Some postpartum doulas offer prenatal visits to get to know you, ease your mind about birth, and help you plan for the fourth trimester. A doula can also help you review your baby’s nursery, set up nursing and changing stations, and ensure you have the essentials on hand for those early days.

Reach out and Meet our Postpartum Doulas
Lovestrong Wellness has wonderful postpartum doulas ready to support you during the fourth trimester. Whether you’re looking for guidance, encouragement, or simply a helping hand, we’re here to walk alongside you.

Connect with us—we’d love to support you: