Do I Need a Postpartum Doula?

Congratulations, you’re expecting a baby! Your to-do list may feel like it’s a mile long: get on daycare waitlists, tour the hospital, take a childbirth class, complete your baby registry…the tasks go on and on. So do the decisions. One of the most important decisions you make is building your care team for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

If you’re here, you may be considering hiring a postpartum doula. Amidst all the decisions you are making, and all the services you’re considering, it makes perfect sense to wonder if a postpartum doula is something you truly need.

Every single day, I get to witness the difference that postpartum support makes to new parents. But rather than hearing it just from me, in this blog post I’ll share some comments that I’ve received from past clients about how my support has impacted their postpartum experiences. While these are short excerpts of testimonials from past clients, you can read more here.

“She is flexible in her scheduling, and continues to check in regularly to see how we are doing as a family.”

One of the key benefits of hiring a postpartum doula is the flexibility and ongoing support they provide. As your family adjusts to life with a new baby, having a doula who can adapt to your changing needs and schedules is invaluable. Regular check-ins ensure that you’re not only getting the help you need but also receiving continued emotional and practical support as your baby grows.

“Even before our baby arrived, she helped us set up the house and figure out how best to use some of our supplies.”

A postpartum doula’s support often begins before the baby even arrives. From organizing the nursery to offering advice on essential baby gear, your doula can help you prepare your home for the new addition. This early assistance helps reduce stress, allowing you to focus on the joy of welcoming your baby rather than worrying about logistics.

“She is an invaluable resource for breastfeeding questions and tips.”

Breastfeeding/chestfeeding can be one of the most challenging aspects of new parenthood. A postpartum doula brings expert knowledge and practical advice, guiding you through any difficulties and offering tips for success. Whether you need help with latch issues, positioning, or understanding your baby’s feeding cues, your doula is there to support both you and your baby in having a positive breastfeeding experience. As a Certified Lactation Counselor, I have additional training in lactation support, and I am also quick to make tailored referrals to address any specific challenges you may be facing.

“I can’t imagine a postpartum without the kind of practical support that Kathleen has offered.”

The postpartum period is a time of adjustment and learning. Having a doula means you’re never alone in figuring things out. From diapering and bathing your baby to handling household tasks, a postpartum doula provides the practical support you need, making those early days much smoother and more enjoyable. Every family’s needs are different, and I am happy to help with tasks like running errands (I’m a pro at Amazon returns!), food prep, baby laundry, and re-stocking diaper stations.

“She also advised and supported me in the transition back to work after parental leave.”

Returning to work after parental leave can be a daunting experience. A postpartum doula not only supports you in the immediate postpartum period but also helps you prepare for the transition back to work. Whether it’s establishing a routine, planning childcare schedules, or providing emotional support, your doula ensures that you feel ready and confident as you move into this next phase. I am particularly passionate about helping parents work through all the moving parts associated with returning to work and setting you up for success.

“Getting a post-partum doula is my #1 tip for new parents, and Kathleen is the best!”

When past clients rave about their postpartum doula, it’s a testament to the lasting impact of the support they received. Hiring a postpartum doula is one of the best decisions you can make as new parents. From expert guidance to compassionate care, the benefits are endless, and the positive effects on your family’s well-being will be felt for years to come.

“If you’re questioning whether you need a postpartum doula, take it from me and go for it. You will not regret having Kathleen as part of your support team.”

Deciding whether or not to hire a postpartum doula can feel like a big decision, but the peace of mind that comes with having an experienced professional by your side is vital. From emotional reassurance to hands-on help, a postpartum doula becomes an essential part of your support network, helping you navigate the challenges of new parenthood with confidence.

A postpartum doula offers the kind of support that every new family deserves. If you're wondering whether you need one, consider the experiences of those who have benefited from this type of support. Could you do it on your own? Of course. Parents have amazing capacity to care for their newborns. But you don’t have to do it alone. The reassurance, emotional support, practical help, and evidence-based information provided by a doula can make your postpartum journey smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful.

About the St. Louis Postpartum Doula, Kathleen Robbins

Kathleen lives in the St. Louis area and provides support as a postpartum doula, in-person to families who live locally and virtually to parents in any location. Kathleen’s favorite part of her job is forming relationships with amazing families and seeing them through one of life’s biggest transitions.