As a Northern Virginia based Lactation Consultant, it’s a treat to see families from every walk of life. Many career-driven couples land in the DC Metro Area for jobs and therefore, lack an extended family network. Add social distancing, travel restrictions and other CDC guidelines for COVID-19 and mom & dad find themselves navigating parenthood alone. Learn more about why you’ll love your doula | find breastfeeding help near me!
What does a doula actually do
It’s common to associate a doula with childbirth. Even though supporting mom during delivery is certainly part of their role, a doula is also an invaluable asset after the baby arrives. You survived the life altering adventure of giving birth and now must tackle many tasks for the very first time. Alone.
Don’t forget you’re physically healing from however your little one entered the world. Meanwhile, you feed, diaper, sooth, dress, undress, hold and comfort someone else around the clock. In most cases you have a partner but there is also grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, and errands to do. Sound like a lot? It is.
Enter Doula.
How doulas help even after childbirth
So what does a doula actually do? Here a just a few of the ways your doula is a game changer.
- Troubleshoot feeding & sleeping cycles. Simply hold your baby or stay on baby-watch so you can get some rest.
- Lend a hand with basic household tasks. Unload the dishwasher. Take the dog out. Tidy up. Throw a load of laundry in. Fold the 27 onesies and burp cloths you go through. Daily.
- Run to Trader Joe’s & manage meal prep. This is my least favorite thing WITHOUT a newborn. It sounds absolutely heavenly when you are in the baby trenches.
- Help with baby care. At this point, a doula is most likely winning the ‘most diapers changed’ catagory.
- Offer breastfeeding support and call in an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) when needed.
Why you’ll love your doula
As I learn all the benefits of having a doula, I regret my postpartum approach. I remember thinking I was winning if I did it all. I am strong. Capable. A Super Mom in the making. As a result of gunning for a nonexistent Badge of Honor, I was weary, exhausted, and depleted.
Explore your doula options
So Expecting Mamas! Do yourself a favor and explore your options. You have nothing to lose to see if a doula is the right fit for your family. On the other hand, you have so much to gain! Benefits such as wellbeing, help to heal faster and enjoy your baby, support to relieve couple pressure, time for self-care and best of all – a shower – come to mind.
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