The postpartum period is a uniquely special and vulnerable time, and we’re privileged to come alongside new families in these early weeks. Quite simply, over the short course of the “fourth trimester,” Lighthouse Doulas attune with our clients, ultimately delivering confident, skilled parents and well-adapted newborns. In a nutshell, we guide and facilitate -- and then gracefully bow out when parents and baby are ready.

Many Lighthouse doulas have a ProDoula Elite Certification, the gold standard in certification, offering clear, commonsense information on optimal early parenting advice based on their extensive training and experience. For medically complex babies, including preemies, some of our doulas are actually RNs and LPNs. In addition, all of our doulas are trained in guiding moms with complicated deliveries back to health.

So, just how do we smooth the transition from hospital to home, easily integrating an infant into a home environment that may include partners, siblings, or other family members? Our postpartum care includes:

• facilitating rest for both parents during a critical recovery and transition time 

• quickly placing the baby on a structured schedule (if parents wish) with guaranteed sleep shaping and eventually training

• keeping detailed records of all feeding, changing, settling, and resettling techniques that facilitate appropriate wake windows 

• providing lactation and feeding support, robust assistance with latching and nursing issues, supplemental bottle feeding if requested, and confidence-building tips for new and experienced parents

• offering nurturing, hands-on help in light household duties including nursery organization, stocking, and baby laundry. Additionally, our doulas are sure to clean all bottles, pump parts, and other baby items

• tracking a newborn’s progress as well as assisting with support, reassurance, and guidance when challenges arise

• providing access to the Lighthouse Doulas Postpartum Care Resource Guide, detailed FAQs, and a blog to guide parents with continued expert advice and support