My interest in supporting new mothers began after my own transition to motherhood and the realisation that most women do not receive optimal preparation and support during this time. Like myself, I saw many mothers really struggling to transition, heal and recover postpartum which is why I feel so passionate about supporting women whilst they step into their new role with confidence and care.
In many cultures, the first 40 days after birth is known as 'The Fourth Trimester' or 'Golden Month' where mothers need to be mothered themselves in order to properly heal, recover and bond with their babies. Rest, warmth, nourishing foods and support are emphasised as community and family come together to support the new mother. Sadly in our culture there is little focus on the post partum period and often mothers are left to feel alone and unsupported with a growing pressure to 'bounce back' and return to their previous body and activities as soon as possible. Training as a Postpartum professional has allowed me to understand the unique physical and emotional changes that occur during this time and how to support newmothers with both traditional post partum practices and modern, evidence based knowledge.
A Postpartum Doula has the important role of helping women prepare for post partum and supports her in these early days as she transitions to motherhood and heals after childbirth. She offers both emotional and physical support by helping the new mother to feel cared for and supported during this time.
Beyond emotional support, which is provided at every visit, sessions will vary according to the mothers needs and the Postpartum Doulas unique background, skills and experience. As a Naturopath & Postpartum Doula I love being able to support women throughout their pregnancy and help them prepare for birth and post partum. Creating a post partum plan is an important step in how I support women by helping them to feel confident on their journey to motherhood. My role is to to guide women as they transition to motherhood, whether it is their first, second or third time etc by helping them to create a plan that feels right for them, connect them with resources and groups in the community, offer emotional support, give practical tips and suggestions as well as provide herbal medicine preparations, nutritional support and lifestyle coaching based on traditional and modern postpartum practices.