As a postpartum doula, what do you do?

Essentially, my job is to help you not need me. To that end, I perform a wide range of activities. I have a lot of training to assist you to breastfeed successfully. I also have knowledge of  what moms and babies recoveries from birth should look like so that I can reassure you or, if necessary, refer you on to other professionals. I am trained to look for the early signs of postpartum depression.  I can help with light household chores and meal preparation, look after baby while mom gets some needed rest, suggest easier ways of organizing or performing tasks, inform you of little “tricks” and helpful hints that have been successful for other families, be a compassionate and supportive ear, and so on. I have compiled lists of community resources to help in your search for other kinds of assistance or purchases.

What are your qualifications?

I took formal training at Douglas College in New Westminster, B.C. and became a Certified Postpartum Doula in 2002.  I also have certificates in Infant CPR and Food Safe.  I am a member in good standing in Doula Services Association of B.C.

What is your experience?

I have been a practicing Postpartum Doula for the past 8 years.  I have worked with families of every description, and have lots of experience with twins as well as premature babies.  Previous to that was, of course, my own experience as a mother and a grandmother.  In addition, during the course of my life I have taken a number of young women under my wing and have helped with their newborns.
      

In what areas of town do you practice?

I am happy to work in any area of greater Vancouver, from the inner city to the outlying suburbs.

At what times of day/night are you available to work?

As I no longer have children at home and am able to sleep at any time, I am available to work at any hour.

For how long of a period do you usually work with a family?

As every family is different, this changes with each situation.  You may only need a few visits, or prefer more support.  Typically I work most intensively during the first 3 – 6 weeks, and am usually not needed after approximately 3 months (longer with twins).  At that point, if you wish, I can help refer you to longer term care.

At what point would you start?

Whenever you decide that you need or want help.  This might be as soon as minutes after birth to assist with that important first latch, or perhaps after your family support has returned to their homes.

Do you have a minimum required number of hours per shift?

Although I appreciate at least a 4 hour shift, I try to be flexible enough to meet your needs and will only ever charge for time actually worked.

What is your availability?

This varies greatly from time to time, but I have usually been able to accommodate most requests.