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I became passionate about supporting mothers and families in the early postpartum through my own experience of having children in 2004 and 2006. It was then that I came to appreciate how much there is to learn in our new roles as mothers and fathers, and how challenging the transition to parenthood can be.
In 2007 I left my 10-year career at an organic farm to become a postpartum doula and breastfeeding counselor. I completed my Postpartum Doula Training through DONA International in the Fall of 2007, and I received my Lactation Counselor Certificate from the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice in May 2008. I have a BS in plant and soil science from the University of Vermont and have completed coursework in anatomy & physiology, nutrition, human growth and development, CPR/First Aid, neonatal resuscitation, and breastfeeding.
When I'm not supporting families in their homes, I work at Fletcher Allen Health Care as a Licensed Nurse Assistant on the mother-baby unit and as a Labor & Delivery Assistant in the birthing center. I continue to seek out continuing education in areas related to supporting families during this amazing time.
As the sole doula with Sweet Start Doula Care, the personal connection I develop with my clients is very important to me. It is an honor and a privilege to share this time with you!
Why Hire a Postpartum Doula?
The early postpartum time is one of enormous changes physically, emotionally and spiritually. It is also a time of changing relationships between all members of a family, physical healing, exhaustion and extreme hormonal fluctuation. As a postpartum doula I help make this time easier with my knowledge, understanding, gentle assistance, and by "holding space" for the blossoming of a family. My role as a postpartum doula is to quietly nurture, encourage and assist the family's growth during this transition. My role compliments that of the partner in helping him/her to support the mother and by providing information and reassurance about the fourth trimester.
Some of the benefits include: increased success with breastfeeding and better confidence with bottlefeeding, less chance of postpartum mood disorders, less maternal (and paternal) exhaustion and frustration, greater understanding of newborn emotional, physical needs and behaviors.
My goal is to essentially "work myself out of a job" as the family gains the skills, knowledge, and confidence in their ability to succeed in their new roles. Helping mothers and families in the early postpartum is my passion because I believe that every family deserves a "babymoon"!
I encourage you to read the DONA International Position Paper on Postpartum Doulas.
Partners and Doulas
Some worry that the role of a doula will replace that of the father or partner. As a doula, I implicitly respect the partner's role and input, and teach concrete skills that will help the partner nurture the baby and mother. I will share evidence-based information that shows how his or her role in the early weeks will have a dramatic positive effect on the family.
Research has proven that mothers and babies have an easier transition with support. However, fathers experience great life transitions of their own at this time and may not be able to be the primary provider of the transitional support the family needs. Fathers are redefining their roles; they may also be adjusting to sleep deprivation, financial pressure, and other stressors as well.
A doula's support is for the father as much as the mother or children. A sympathetic ear, source of encouragement, gentle educator and friend is something from which we could all benefit throughout our lives. I will provide all of the these during this defining life experience.
*Adapted from DONA International's Dads and Doulas Brochure
DONA International
dona.org
Chittenden County Breastfeeding Coalition
breastfeedvt.com
Vermont Breastfeeding Network
Vermont Lactation Consultants Association
vlca.org
The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice
talpp.org
