Everything You Need to Know About Postpartum Doulas (And Why You Might Want One)
Parenthood and the postpartum journey are unique experiences for everyone. The Fourth Trimester, or first 3 months after your baby is born, is a sacred time for families to heal and bond. It’s beautiful, joyful, exhausting, and at times overwhelming. As I’ve experienced through my own postpartum journey and the families I’ve supported, it’s an experience that truly takes a village. In the early weeks of postpartum, even the most prepared families can feel stretched thin. That’s where a postpartum doula comes in.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding a new baby to your growing family, having someone by your side who is trained to offer nonjudgmental, evidence-based, hands-on support can make all the difference. In this guide, you'll learn what a postpartum doula does, how they can support you, and what to expect if you hire one.
What Is a Postpartum Doula?
Postpartum doulas are trained professionals who provide in-home support and serve the physiological and emotional needs of parents, whether it’s their first or third baby. Many parents dismiss postpartum doula services as a luxury. Unlike a nanny or medical provider, a postpartum doula's focus is on supporting the whole family, emotionally, physically, and educationally. A great postpartum doula can attend to all of the universal postpartum needs: preparing fresh, nutrient-dense meals, newborn care and feeding support, leading you in breathing exercises, wrapping your belly, reminding you to rest, making your house beautiful, and listening to you. Investing in your care at this time sets you up for a peaceful recovery where you feel nurtured, celebrated, and strong, so that you can nurture your baby. Their goal is to nurture the parent as much as the baby, helping families feel more confident and connected during this transition.
What Services Do Postpartum Doulas Provide?
Every visit is tailored to your needs and often includes a mix of these services:
Newborn Care: identifying newborn cues, swaddling and soothing techniques, babywearing and baby carriers, infant sleep, newborn bath time and nail trimming, and diapering (disposable and cloth diapers)
Feeding Support: lactation support and referrals, breastfeeding and chest-feeding guidance, milk storage and preparation, bottle feeding, pumping and tracking feeds, and donor milk resources
Household Support: laundry, dishes, cooking and meal preparation, organizing baby supplies, and sibling integration
Physical and Emotional Care: processing the birth story and postpartum emotions for both birthing and non-birthing parents, adjusting to new family dynamics, understanding and supporting growth, companionship and conversation, belly binding and Closing of the Bones ceremony, and bodywork (acupressure and massage)
Day Doula vs Overnight Doula Support: What is the Difference?
Daytime Support typically lasts between 4-8 hours and can include any of the services listed above. This hands-on support allows parents to catch up on sleep and self-care, and spend time with their doula discussing any physiological and emotional needs, resources and referrals. It is not common for the doula to be left alone with your newborn during this time.
Overnight Support typically lasts 8-10 hours. Your doula will meet you in the evening and take care of your newborn while you and your partner catch up on sleep. Overnight doulas help with bottle cleaning and retrieving bottles if you’re on a pumping schedule, baby soothing and nighttime feeding help, sleep support, tidying up the space, and may prepare a meal for you when you wake up. Your doula will discuss sleeping arrangements with you on an individualized basis, but overall it is common to provide nighttime doulas with a designated bed or sofa and be near your baby’s bassinet and changing table. Unless otherwise specified, it is common for postpartum doulas to nap when the baby is napping in order to stay alert during times of need.
Do I Really Need a Postpartum Doula?
Not every family hires a doula, but many who do say it was the best decision they made. You might benefit if:
You don’t have family or support nearby
You’re healing from a surgical or complicated birth
You’re struggling with feeding or sleep
You’re feeling anxious, unsure, or overwhelmed
You simply want more rest and reassurance in those early weeks
A postpartum doula helps you build confidence, feel supported, and enjoy your baby more fully.
FAQ: Top Questions Parents Ask About Postpartum Doulas
How much does a postpartum doula cost?
Postpartum doulas typically charge by the hour and rates can range from $40 to $65 per hour depending on experience, services offered, and location. Some families use HSA/FSA funds, and a few insurance providers (like medicaid or Carrot Fertility) may offer full or partial reimbursement. Always ask your doula about insurance coverage or ask for a superbill or invoice if you plan to submit for reimbursement.
What training and certifications do doulas have?
Many are trained through organizations like DONA International, CAPPA, ICEA, or ProDoula. In addition to these programs, all doulas are required to have CPR certification for infants and adults as well as basic HIPPA training. When hiring a postpartum doula, ask them about their background, experience, and ongoing education to make sure they are trained in the areas of care that you are most interested in receiving.
What should I ask when interviewing a doula?
Common questions include: certifications and training, backup arrangements and communication style, vaccine status, philosophy on parenting and feeding, meals they love to cook, handling of breastfeeding, fees and payment schedule, availability and scheduling flexibility, conflict resolution, and confidentiality.
Most importantly, choose someone you feel comfortable with—someone who listens well, respects your space, and makes you feel seen.
Why I Do This Work
As a postpartum doula with a background in childbirth education, and someone currently training to become an IBCLC lactation consultant, I’m deeply passionate about helping families thrive. I approach each family with a wealth of knowledge, resources and guidance, and provide individualized care so that you can focus on healing and bonding with your baby. I believe that when parents are supported, nourished, and encouraged, they parent from a place of joy and strength. As you meet your baby and transform into the parent you’re becoming, I am honored to share this experience with you and create a space that feels calm, comforting, and full of joy.
I offer free discovery calls so we can talk about your needs and how I can support you.
Let’s make your postpartum experience one that feels calm, supported, and full of love.
