PW Design and Co

Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience. While the excitement of welcoming a newborn is unparalleled, the postpartum period—the fourth trimester—can be equally overwhelming. My own experience in motherhood was a rude awakening. I did not have much interaction with babies before my own. So the hormone shift, the sleep depression and the loneliness of mothering during a globe pandemic hit me like a ton of bricks. This is where a postpartum doula came in to help me make sense of it all.

The support that I received from Edmonton Area Family Doulas was an invaluable experience. 

The emotional and practical assistance helped to navigate a hard transition. Even using the service with my second born as well.

Emotional Support and Validation

The postpartum period is an emotional roller coaster. Between fluctuating hormones, the exhaustion of caring for a newborn, and adjusting to a new identity as a parent, I felt isolated and anxious. My postpartum doula provided emotional support by offering a listening ear and validating the normal range of emotions I experienced. After a falling out two days postpartum with my own mother, I was searching for all the help I could get and Anita provided a kind ear and a warm presence in an otherwise emotional state. 

Having someone to talk to about your feelings, fears, and uncertainties without judgment did relieve some of the stress. It was nice to know that some of the thoughts in my head were normal, and to hear that I should talk to my doctor or therapist just in case they felt I would need additional assistance. 

Practical, Hands-On Help

Newborn care is not always intuitive, especially for first-time parents. A postpartum doula provides practical assistance with tasks like feeding, diapering, and bathing. They can also offer guidance on soothing techniques and help parents understand their baby’s needs and cues. Swaddling at the hospital looked so easy, but the moment we got home it was as if we both had amnesia, it was nice to have someone give us another tutorial. 

Additionally, postpartum doulas often help with household tasks like meal preparation, light cleaning, or running errands. These small, practical gestures made all the difference. After a c-section with my first, operating in a two storey house made it difficult to get to the kitchen and grab food. It was great to have someone heat up some leftovers and bring them up. 

Guidance for Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding

For many new parents, feeding—whether breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination—can be a source of concern. A postpartum doula is supportive of whichever you choose and can help be a cheering squad to help you on your goal. 

As most new mothers know there is a loneliness that comes with breastfeeding, oftentimes one room is set up for nursing so you are often tucked away from others while nursing. Having a postpartum doula around meant I wasn’t alone, and it was some of the most comfortable conversations I’ve had. Having those adult conversations with a fellow mother was the highlight of most of the early days.

Promoting Recovery for the Birthing Parent

Recovering from childbirth—whether a vaginal delivery or cesarean section—requires time and care. A postpartum doula encourages the birthing parent to prioritize self-care during recovery. The main reason I wanted a postpartum doula was because of the focus of care for the birthing parent. It’s odd living in the western world, as in some cultures the birthing parent stays in bed for 40 days while others support her and the household. However, in the western world you spend upwards of a few days in hospital and you are sent home not only to recover but to also care for a whole new person. Most of us, sent home with no village.

I wish in Canada we had more access to resources to care for mothers postpartum, as the benefits are unmatched and honestly we deserve it. I recognize hiring postpartum help is considered a luxury, but hopefully we can normalize asking for help. Whether that be including money for postpartum care on your registries or more friends/family offering assistance. 

Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Mood Disorders

Studies show that postpartum support plays a significant role in reducing the risk of postpartum mood disorders such as postpartum depression or anxiety. The presence of a postpartum doula can alleviate some of the stress that contributes to these conditions by providing emotional support, reducing isolation, and helping new parents navigate the changes they’re experiencing.

Doulas are also trained to recognize the signs of postpartum mood disorders and can offer referrals for mental health professionals if needed, ensuring parents receive timely and appropriate care.

The postpartum period is an intense time of transition, and having the right support can make all the difference. A postpartum doula provides emotional, physical, and practical assistance that helps new parents feel confident, supported, and less overwhelmed. Whether it’s offering advice on newborn care, assisting with recovery, or simply being a compassionate presence, a postpartum doula helps ensure that the fourth trimester is a time of healing, bonding, and growth for the entire family.

If you’re expecting or have recently welcomed a baby, I would strongly recommend having a postpartum doula by your side during this transformative time.

Who helped you during your fourth trimester?