Postpartum Doulas Help Moms Be More Responsive To Baby

Doula — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:00:00 GMT

There is increasing evidence that postpartum doulas are effective in helping moms be more confident and responsive to baby.
In a study published by JOGNN, a journal of the Association of Women's Health,Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, "postpartum doulas facilitate the transition to parenthood by providing education (evidence-based information on infant feeding and soothing, recovery from birth, andcoping skills) and nonjudgmental emotional support for the new family" (JOGNN 2009; Vol 38, Issue 2, p. 148).

This and other studies confirm what our customers tell us. Doulas are trusted advisors who gently guide mother and baby (and father and siblings) during the first crucial weeks and months. They help the whole family to relax and enjoy this new adventure!

Crying Spells: What to Try When Your Baby is Inconsolable

Doula — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:30:00 GMT

Recent research shows that a crying baby isn't really a problem—it may even be a sign that your little one is robustly normal! This is small comfort at 4 a.m., I know. Here are some ideas to try, for a baby 3 weeks to 3 months of age, after you've changed the diapers and know she's not hungry, too hot or cold, or in need of medical attention to stop pain:

Swaddle: Wrape your baby in a Miracle Blanket or regular blanket (have your doula show you how).
Wear the baby on your chest in a Moby Wrap or sling, or hold him on the middle of your chest skin to skin. Use one hand to hold the head and the other to support the bottom of the child.
Walk the baby with a swaying or lightly bouncing motion. Sit on a large exercise ball and bounce with the baby (protect the head!).
Tell the baby "shhhh," sing to the baby, or repeat softly, "oh, oh, oh." Turn the faucet on so that she can hear water running.
Let the baby suck on your clean finger or pacifier.
Try bathing the baby in warm water; dim the lights.
Use a baby swing (make sure the head is supported). OK to crank up the speed.
Let the baby look at lights.
Try vibration, for example the dryer (baby in infant carrier on top), driving in the car, leaning against the refridgerator, turning on vibrate on the bassinet. Don't leave baby alone in the car nor on the dryer.
Use the football hold or other hold that puts the baby on her side or stomach. Once the baby is asleep, put her on her back (back to sleep).

Sometimes a combination of the above works and sometimes, even when you try all of these, the baby will continue to cry, so just keep walking with him.

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Postpartum Doulas Help Moms Be More Responsive To Baby

Crying Spells: What to Try When Your Baby is Inconsolable