 |
Grandma Rocks!
A Grandma, helping Mom, helping baby.
|
 |
WHAT IS A DOULA?
The name Doula (pronounced Doo-la) is derived from a Greek word, meaning servant or handmaiden. The doula is a nurturer who, in traditional cultures, came to assist the new mother, primarily to help facilitate breastfeeding, since no other methods of infant feeding were available. A Postpartum Doula "mothers" the new mother by performing those tasks that comfort her and free her to be with her baby. Research shows that having someone in the home to assist the new mother greatly decreases the risk of postpartum depression and postpartum medical problems.
While the Postpartum Doula is a non-medical care provider, she does provide in-home practical, educational, and emotional support to new mothers and their families. This support commonly includes (but is not limited to):
- Mother care
- Emotional support
- Breastfeeding support
- Infant care
- Sibling care
- Meal preparation
- Errands
- Light housekeeping
- Overnight care
|