Postpartum doula recommendations
Hi parents network team! I just recently delivered and after hitting some unforeseen baby news/updates in the first 72 hours for us, I am now feeling that we will need significant help at home in this new postpartum adventure (things like breastfeeding support, managing stress and and anxiety through post partum, and managing your relationship with your partner thtt tryoufh all of this.
Anyone have a postpartum doula they loved or would recommend? Any additional insight you can share on costs also much appreciated!
Sep 27, 2023
Parent Replies
This sounds like it may be beyond the scope of a post partum doula. They usually help more with infant care, household care. I’d look into a lactation specialist and maybe a therapist? I’m sure your doctor or your pediatrician has referrals.
Ruby Neal (rubydoula [at] gmail.com) was my postpartum night Doula and she was a lifesaver. She got my baby on a good routine and helped me actually get some sleep through the newborn stage. I can't sing her praises enough. A previous client told me they considered her the 'Steph Curry' of doulas and I totally agree with that assessment. I know she has a client scheduled for delivery in late October, but she may have time to offer you between now and then.
As for cost, most postpartum night doulas are at least $50 an hour with an 8 hour minimum. Expensive, but worth it to not feel completely destroyed after each long night. Good luck!
Try contacting Bay Area Night Doulas! They are a network of doulas and the owner Frances is very responsive. Best of luck!
Hi there, I gave birth last August 2022 and worked with Leonora Willlis as a post-partum doula. It was a one time visit but she has several offerings, see her website here: https://leonorawillis.life/birthwork-offerings. She is absolutely amazing, I've attended her yoga and built a relationship with her and I can't say enough good things about her.
Grace Klein was my birth doula, I loved her, she does both at alternating times I believe. I wish I had set up postpartum support also- finding the support when you need it is an extra task that is hard to manage. So my advice is to get whoever is available!