by Andrea Stainbrook
Spring is here and that means it’s also time to celebrate Doulas! World Doula Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the doulas you know and love. This year for World Doula Week let’s start with doula definitions.
First, let’s answer a question we are asked often: what is a doula?
A doula is someone who brings confidence and comfort to families.
We are non-medical in scope, and are experts in birth and early parenthood. Doulas are there for families in pregnancy, during birth, and after baby arrives. Through education, emotional support, or physical support we help bring calm to the chaos of this transitional time.
Let’s talk the difference in Labor Doulas and Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas. Although our role is always to attuning to the needs of the family we are serving, that can look different before and after your babies arrive.
Labor Doulas
Labor Doulas are available to you once you hire them. Answering questions, listening to your feelings, and being a walking B.R.A.I.N. acronym as you navigate decisions. (What is B.R.A.I.N.?) In birth they are by your side offering comfort measures and always cheering you on. They join the birth team and add a layer of continuous support. Metro Detroit Doula Services’ Doulas support all types of births.
Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas
Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas join you once your baby or babies are here. Imagine arriving home from the hospital with your new bundle and having another set of hands to help you get things settled in. Following the philosophies that you have for parenting, Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas help you develop a rhythm as you navigate life as a parent. They help during the day or the night. That’s right….the night! They stay overnight and tend to the baby to bring you rest.
Ultimately as doulas our mission is for families to feel stronger and feel comfort. Need a doula in your life? Contact Metro Detroit Doula Services today.