Tomi Knutson, CMT
Postpartum Doula Services
"Doula" is a Greek word, which simply means "a woman care-giver of another woman." In ancient times, Doulas were an essential part of a woman’s birthing experience and remained with her from when labor started until she integrated her birth experience into her daily life. Similarly today, Birth & Postpartum Doulas provide mothers & their families with the invaluable benefits of emotional & physical support, consistency of care & hands-on experience as well as pertinent information & referrals from late pregnancy throughout the postpartum period.
Postpartum care:
The postpartum period is often called the "4th trimester”. It is a pivotal time of transformation, full of healing, learning & adjustments for both family and one's community. The Doula's mission is to help new parents learn and adapt to the needs of their newborn, creating a rhythm together, which is both nurturing and sustainable for the whole family. A Postpartum Doula helps ease this transition in the following ways:
A Doula:
The Night Doula's focus is to help mom rest as much as possible, while allowing the partner (if applicable) to sleep through the night. The Night Doula usually comes to your home for an 8-hr period, one or several times a week, for up to 3 months. As Doula's tend to book in advance, it's best to call 1-2 months before your infant arrives.
Postpartum care:
The postpartum period is often called the "4th trimester”. It is a pivotal time of transformation, full of healing, learning & adjustments for both family and one's community. The Doula's mission is to help new parents learn and adapt to the needs of their newborn, creating a rhythm together, which is both nurturing and sustainable for the whole family. A Postpartum Doula helps ease this transition in the following ways:
A Doula:
- helps with physical and emotional recovery from birth;
- offers information on infant feeding, including breast feeding support;
- teaches newborn soothing techniques;
- helps identify normal newborn behavior, including feeding, sleeping and waking patterns;
- assists with newborn care;
- at night, Doulas can provide practical assistance such as preparing snacks and performing light household tasks;
- teaches coping skills and encourages parents' self-care;
- offers appropriate referrals when necessary.
The Night Doula's focus is to help mom rest as much as possible, while allowing the partner (if applicable) to sleep through the night. The Night Doula usually comes to your home for an 8-hr period, one or several times a week, for up to 3 months. As Doula's tend to book in advance, it's best to call 1-2 months before your infant arrives.
Testimonials-
"You improved our quality of life so much!"
Mina S., mother of 3
"Your help was revelatory-the things you taught us helped us
relax, our baby relax, thank you!"
Andrea-new adoptive mother
"You are a walking Miracle! I don't know what I would have done
without you!"
Marie S., mother of 2, repeat client
Tomi J. Knutson - (510) 502-5799
