The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who
serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced
professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and
informational support to the mother before, during and just after
birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the
postpartum period. (DONA)
Postpartum is a
period of adjustment unlike any other in your life. With so much time spent on
preparing for birth, parents often find that they are relatively unprepared for
the adjustments in lifestyle and routine that are necessary during postpartum.
A Postpartum Doula's role is to support the
family during a time of adjustment and help introduce practices that will lead
to healthy habits. A Postpartum
Doula's role is not to be the primary caregiver for the newborn, but rather to
assist you and your partner in your new roles as parents so you more easily
bond with, and take care of your baby. The first weeks home with a newborn are very exciting times
as you learn more about yourselves and your baby. These may also be challenging times. In the past, families had extensive
support systems of women who helped to care for the new mother and her baby. Today, this is not always the case, so a
Postpartum Doula steps in to nurture the whole family.
Postpartum Doulas are also beneficial when
introducing your infant to older siblings, or managing twins or triplets.
Here is a link to a wonderful article by Peggy O'Mara who explains all that is involved in the unique time of the "4th Trimester".
http://www.peggyomara.com/2014/01/07/postpartum4th-trimester/