The babies are previous clients. The photos were taken by Carrie Sandoval.
A postpartum doula's basic role is to "mother the mother. The duties of a postpartum doula can change from day to day, depending on the needs of the mother and the family, from day to day tasks, light household duties, running errands, taking care of the new baby's silbings, and much more. A postpartum doula will do whatever she can to help the mother and baby adjust, including providing helpful hints and instructions for baby care to the mother, the family, and the siblings. She can be a much needed resource and a helpful hand during the postpartum period, taking care of the mother as she takes care of her newborn baby. As opposed to an infant nurse, who's role is more focused directly on the baby, a postpartum doula attends to the needs of the mother and her family. For more information on the roles a postpartum doula can play in your family, please see DONA International's FAQ on postpartum doulas.
Two resources that I recommend are kellymom: breastfeeding and parenting, La Leche League and Breastfeeding Online.
I recommend Rena' Ward of Integrative Childbirth Services.
My average length of stay with a family is 1 month per baby. Example:
However, some people ask me to stay longer or shorter than average.
Answers to this question will vary. My answer is that an infant specialist (formerly called a baby nurse) usually tends strictly to the baby. A doula tends to the entire family. I am certified as both a doula and an infant specialist.
Yes, I have. They have the same needs as new non-celebrity parents do.
I work in both Orange County and Los Angeles County. My home is centrally located between the two.
If you are in your first trimester, I suggest you read Misconceptions by Naomi Wolf. Otherwise, my favorites are Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin. Also, The Baby Book by Dr. Sears is a good resource.