Types of Doulas
Birth Doula ~ They will meet with you beforehand to discuss your birth options & strategies for managing labor, and help you create a birth plan & prepare for the emotional & physical aspects of birth and immediate postpartum. They are available during your pregnancy for any questions and concerns you have. During labor, they will suggest and assist you with comfort measures such as laboring positions, heat pads, shower, massage, etc. They will know what your birth desires are and will help you to achieve those the best they can. If and when you hit snags in the road, they will help you know what options you have. They will support in the moments after birth as you breastfeed, deliver the placenta, clean up, and settle in for some rest. They are available in the early weeks after birth for questions, concerns, and breastfeeding support. (A doula does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; make decisions for you; or promise a pain free labor & birth or specific health outcomes for mother or child.)
Postpartum Doulas ~ help ease the transition into a new family, aid in breastfeeding success & reduce and/or recognize the risk of mood disorders. They offer evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing, and coping skills for new parents. They will also be able to make referrals to quality care providers & support groups. They are typically hired to come to your house after the baby is born and visit 1-2 times a week for 2-4 hour blocks of time to help assists with newborn care, daily adjustment, meal preparation, and light household chores and errands.
Bereavement Doulas ~ In the case of miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, detail diagnosis, or a rainbow baby bereavement birth doulas provide support prior to, during, and after birth in any trimester. Care would look similar to birth doulas and would include customized support. Bereavement doulas might also offer birth support to the family who has already suffered loss or a traumatic experience even with a healthy baby.