There’s an idea floating around out there, in our mom’s groups and our social circles and within society itself.
The idea is that once someone gives birth they should be able to manage life with a demanding newborn, be happy about it at all times, look good doing it, and never need any help with baby.
Let me tell you something: There is no medal awarded to someone who struggles through life with a baby all by themselves.
But, we hear women from previous generations saying things like, “I never had any help when you were born. I did it all by myself. With cloth diapers and no dryer and fathers didn’t even change diapers in those days!” or “This is supposed to be such a happy time in your life. It should be fun being at home and watching your baby grow. The years go by so quickly! Enjoy every moment.”
What if it’s not? What if the days are passing by so slowly you can’t even imagine making it through the first year? What if you don’t want to do it alone? What if I told you it could be easier?
Surprise! Anyone can hire a postpartum doula and have help with their baby. Even you. Yes, you. You don’t need to be a single mom. You don’t need to be struggling with depression. Your baby doesn’t need to be a newborn, or even under 3 months. You don’t need to have it worse than anyone else.
Even if you feel like you don’t “need” a postpartum doula, if you want one, you can have one.
We’ve worked with families who have hired postpartum doulas for so many different reasons:
- a husband who works away a lot, so the new mom simply wants time “off” so she can shower, or grab a coffee or go for a jog
- a high needs baby who cries a lot and is becoming overwhelming and the new family wants help and support
- a family who doesn’t have external support available and wants day-to-day help with caring for baby, meal preparation and laundry
- people who know it will make their life easier and that’s a good enough reason!
