What is the difference between a Postpartum Doula and a Baby Nurse/Newborn Care Specialist?

A Postpartum Doula and a Baby Nurse/Newborn Care Specialist have duties that overlap, but there are several differences. A Baby Nurse/Newborn Care Specialist focuses on caring solely for the newborn. She is especially helpful with premature or sick infants, multiple babies and newborns that need medical attention.

The Postpartum Doula not only cares for the newborn, she also nurtures the mother and the entire family.

Bringing a new baby into the house is a big adjustment for everyone, the Postpartum Doula can assist by teaching parents how to care for their new baby, help the older siblings to adjust, and be an extra presence in the home to help out wherever there is a need.

What is a Multiples Newborn Care Specialist/Baby Nurse?

A Multiples Newborn Care Specialist/Baby Nurse is a highly skilled professional who can help new parents care for two or more babies at a time. Having one baby is challenging enough, but two or more babies can present unique, ongoing challenges. A Multiples Newborn Care Specialist/ Baby Nurse is there to help and teach parents how to meet these challenges and can also provide assistance with the ongoing concerns and the special needs of preemies.

What is the length of PostpartumCare/Baby Nurse services?

There is no set time limit as to the length of time a family will need postpartum care. Most clients go up to four months. For preemies and infants with special needs, the care can be extended based on the individual family's schedules and needs.

Why do families need Postpartum Care?

It used to be that families got a lot of help when they came home with a new baby. Friends and neighbors would bring over meals, relatives came to stay to help with the baby, offer advice, give emotional support, and take care of things around the house. That has changed for many people and new parents quickly realize how overwhelming it is to care for their newborn. Mothers are still recovering from the physical stress of childbirth, not to mention the fluctuating hormones and general exhaustion.

A postpartum doula can be of great assistance to families who have no relatives or friends nearby. They can give the new mom support, encouragement, and the knowledge needed to care for herself and her baby. They will also assist with any household matters that need attending to while the mother recovers. Even if the family does have outside help, the postpartum doula is a non-judgmental presence in the home whose impartial, expert advice can be a lifesaver.

When should I register for a Postpartum Doula?

It is highly recommended that you register for a postpartum doula a couple of months before your due date in order to work out scheduling. Postpartum care is available days, evenings and overnight. Care is available a minimum of four hours during the day or evening and a minimum of eight hours overnight. The number of hours can be increased depending on the amount of care needed. Mother's generally need more help right after the baby is born, up to 12 weeks postpartum.

When should I register for a Newborn Care Specialist/Baby Nurse?

You should start your search as early as six months prior to your anticipated delivery date. However, don't hesitate to call if you need someone immediately. We are happy to accommodate families on short notice.

When should I register for a Birth Doula?

It is highly recommended that you register for a birth doula by the fifth month of pregnancy.

How do I pay on holidays?

The following holidays are double pay: New Years Eve/Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

What are the legal requirekments to hire a baby nurse or a postpartum doula?

For additional information to hire a baby nurse or a postpartum doula please visit www.legallynanny.com, www.gtm.com or www.breedlove-online.com.