Along with the joy of having a baby, there are also things like great fatigue and maybe a little fear, right? Everything is new. How to breastfeed the baby, how to bathe him, the difficulties you face when you wake up at night... With all this, as a mother, you also need a little rest and help. At a time like this, how good would it be to have someone who is specially trained to help you, support you, and do this? That's what we call a Postpartum Doula. Although this word is a little new to us in Sri Lanka, this is truly a very valuable service for mothers.
Who exactly is a Postpartum Doula?
Simply put, a Postpartum Doula is a professional who is trained to support a new mother during the postpartum period. This first 6 weeks or so after giving birth is sometimes called the "fourth trimester" because this time is just as important for both mother and baby as it is during pregnancy.
Think about it, there are some people who call themselves "Birth Doulas." They help during childbirth. But the role of a Postpartum Doula begins after you bring the baby home. Their main goal is to take care of the mother, to provide the physical and emotional support she needs. It's like having another mother to take care of the mother. These people usually give you evidence-based, scientifically based information.
What help does a Postpartum Doula provide?
What a Postpartum Doula does can vary from day to day, depending on your and your family's needs. It's like a service that can be tailored to you. Here are some of the typical services they provide.
| Helping field | A description of the support received |
|---|---|
| Supporting mom | Providing emotional support to the mother, helping her to stay healthy. Especially after a cesarean delivery, a mother is physically helped with things like getting up and walking. A nutritious meal and snack are prepared for the mother. |
| Babysitting | They help with things like changing the baby's nappy and putting him to sleep. They teach the family about ways to comfort the baby and bond with the baby. They take care of the baby so that the mother and father can take a bath, sleep, eat something, and rest. |
| Breastfeeding | Provides knowledge, support, and necessary assistance regarding breastfeeding. Referrals to other services, such as a breastfeeding consultant, are provided. |
| Housework | They help with light household chores, such as washing dishes, tidying up the house, and doing laundry. (It's important to remember that they are not domestic workers.) |
| Helping other family members | They also support the rest of the family by doing things like playing with the other children at home and helping them sleep. |
Who needs help from a Postpartum Doula?
We often prepare for the birth of our baby in great detail. But the real challenge begins once the baby is home. For new parents, this can feel like a sudden plunge into deep water. The support of a postpartum doula is a great help for first-time moms and dads, as well as those who are adding a new baby to their family.
Research has shown that parents who receive this kind of support in the postpartum period experience many benefits.
- They feel more secure and confident in their new role.
- Easily adapts to changing family patterns.
- There is a greater chance of successful breastfeeding .
- Their self-confidence increases.
- The risk of postpartum depression is reduced.
- Research has also shown that the risk of domestic violence is reduced.
How to find a good postpartum doula?
Since this concept is still new in Sri Lanka, finding someone can be a bit of a challenge. But you can try these methods:
- Ask your doctor: Ask your obstetrician/gynecologist about this. They may know of people who provide these services.
- Through hospitals: Check with the hospital where you are expecting your baby, especially private hospitals . They may be able to coordinate these services.
- Parenting groups: You can find recommendations through trusted parenting groups on social media like Facebook. However, you should definitely do your research before choosing someone.
- Internet: Search the internet using words like 'Postpartum Doula Sri Lanka'. There are now several people in Sri Lanka who provide this service.
What questions should you ask before choosing someone?
Before you choose a Postpartum Doula , it's important to talk to them and ask them a few questions like these. Because they'll be the person in your home who will spend the most time with you during this time, it's essential that they're a good fit for you.
| Question to ask | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| How long have you worked as a Postpartum Doula? | Get an idea of the experience. |
| Do you have training or certification from a recognized institution? | Verify their qualifications and professionalism. |
| What are your rates? Are there any package options? | To see if it fits your budget. |
| How soon after the baby is born can I start working? | To know if you can get them whenever you need them. |
| Do you have experience working with families with other children at home? | To measure their ability to interact with other children in your family. |
| What services do you not provide? (e.g. medical advice, heavy cleaning) | To clarify the expectations of both, it is important to understand that they are not doctors. |
Take-Home Message
- A postpartum doula is a professional who is trained to support new mothers after childbirth.
- They help you physically, mentally, and with practical things like caring for your newborn and light household chores.
- This support can reduce the mother's stress, make breastfeeding successful, and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
- When choosing someone, carefully research their qualifications and experience to make sure they are a good fit for your family.
- Remember, a Postpartum Doula is a support person, not a doctor. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any health concerns you or your baby may have.
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