What kinds of things does a postpartum doula do?
Every postpartum doula should help you with breastfeeding, basic baby care and education, referrals to specialists when needed (such as lactation consultants and other postpartum professionals), and light housework. Beyond that, each postpartum doula is responsible for deciding what additional services she is willing to offer clients.
Rites of Passage Doula Services offers the following menu of additional services:
- Laundry
- Washing dishes
- Pescetarian, vegetarian, and vegan meal preparation
- Grocery shopping
- Pet care
- Answering phones and taking messages
What are your qualifications?
I am adult/infant/child CPR certified and first aid certified through the American Red Cross. I also carry liability insurance, which covers me until your child is 6 months of age.
I have been independently studying pregnancy, birth, and childcare since 2003. I am educated regarding the changes in a postpartum mother's body and mind, in addition to proper care and nurturing of the newborn. I have extensive training in breastfeeding and have access to a large network of lactation professionals to whom I can refer a family if they experience breastfeeding hurdles that require additional help. I am a member of DONA International and a DONA-trained birth doula, but have chosen not to pursue DONA's postpartum doula certification for a variety of reasons.
Understanding that some families prefer to see a certification, I am happy to refer you to local postpartum doulas who have completed DONA's postpartum workshop and certification process should you need help finding one.
What cities do you serve?
I am based out of Chapel Hill/Carrboro and will travel to Durham, Hillsborough, Morrisville, Pittsboro, Cary, Apex, and certain areas of Raleigh easily accessible to I40. Ideally, I won't travel more than 40 minutes one way or 30 miles one way. Some exceptions may be made for short-term emergencies.
Do you have references?
Yes! For a list of references, please email jessica@ritesofpassagedoula.com.
How much do you charge?
Daytime rates cap out at $18/hour. Lower rates are available for longer-term care.