Fun Fact: Did you know that it is clinically proven to reduce birth complications by having a Doula present? Hiring a Doula for your birth can be one of the most rewarding decisions you could make for yourself and your family.
One of the most amazing things we do as Doulas is help a first time mommy breastfeed her baby for the first time. You can learn about breastfeeding during those long months anxiously waiting for your child to be born however, It is a whole new ball game when it comes to actually doing it. A California study researched the difference between standard nursing support to the full support of a Doula. They found that there was less of a delay in milk becoming full in the mothers who had full support. 68% of the mothers who had the support from a Doula were still breastfeeding 6 weeks post partum; While only 54% of the mothers who received standard care 6 weeks postpartum. In comparison to that, Any mother who had some sort of birth complication were twice as likely to stop breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum.
Our focus as Doulas is to ensure you have the most graceful birth possible as well as an ease into motherhood. We understand that each child has different needs and each mother may have her own challenges as well. We aim to educate and assist in the most positive way we can.
There are generally three opportunities for your Doula to train and coach you on breastfeeding. The first is during your prenatal as she teaches you the benefits of breastfeeding and answers any questions you have. Then will physically teach you how to hold and position your baby once you deliver and again at your postnatal visit to ensure things are going well. The way to have optimum success at breastfeeding would be to hire your Doula for an additional time for more post natal visits or and overnight stay after baby is born to make sure you are breastfeeding and transitioning smoothly. Doulas are trained in breastfeeding education however we are not complete experts on this particular subject. Should you seek further coaching or have any complications while breastfeeding, You should be seeking the help of a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for assistance.
Breastfeeding can be easy, ask a Postpartum Doula for help!
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/Why-Breastfeed.aspx
https://www.fitpregnancy.com/baby/breastfeeding/20-breastfeeding-benefits-mom-baby
https://www.livestrong.com/article/32345-list-foods-eat-breastfeeding/
Durham Region Doulas 