what is a postpartum doula?
Doulas are trained in postpartum adjustment, newborn characteristics, care, feeding and development and the promotion of parent-infant bonding. They are experienced in supporting families through their postpartum experience.
Coming into the home during the fourth trimester following birth, the doula’s role is to provide education, non-judgmental support and companionship; and to assist with newborn care and family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tasks.
Postpartum doulas offer evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and can make appropriate referrals when necessary
Source: The Postpartum Doula’s Role in Maternity Care, DONA.org
what is a typical visit like?
A visit typically lasts between 3-6 hours.
Example visit
A sample visit might go like this:
- Prepare snack for mother and listen to concerns while mother breastfeeds
- Provide evidence-based information both verbally and in writing regarding breastfeeding and infant care
- Start load of laundry and change sheets while mother showers
- Wear baby for nap while folding laundry. Mother also naps!
- Ensure there is a plan for dinner
about Katherine
I’m a native Raleigh gal that loves coming alongside families during the special (but oh so hard!) postpartum period.
After studying business administration at UNC, I spent two years teaching English in Central Asia before entering the clinical research organization world negotiating contracts. Our first son was born in 2018 and our world has forever changed!
When I’m not chasing our boys, I enjoy being outside, tea time, reading, and baking.
Credentials
Katherine Listrom, PCD (DONA)
DONA International Certified Postpartum Doula
services offered
In-home postpartum doula support
Cost:
- prenatal assessment is free
- $30/hr support after that
A typical contract looks something like:
- 1 – 3 visits per week
- 3 – 4 hours per visit
- lasts the first 12 weeks postpartum
The number of hours you contract for is up to you!
Service area:
- Raleigh
- Wake Forest
- Creedmoor
- Durham
- Cary
- Morrisville
Virtual support group
Cost:
- attendance is free
- workbook is a one-time cost of $20
Workbook:
Support for Newborn Moms: Because Your Baby Isn’t The Only New One Around Here
by Kerri Kristoff
Virtual support group sponsored by Bay Leaf Baptist Church’s New Mother Care Ministry
what to expect at your prenatal visit
Before baby’s arrival, I will meet you and your partner for a prenatal visit in your home.
We will talk about your preferences for things like newborn feeding, sleep arrangements, laundry, cooking, etc. We will also discuss your existing support networks such as your partner’s leave, extended family, friends, etc.
After talking, I will suggest different packages of support, and we will review a contract.
The prenatal visit lasts about 1.5 hours, is no charge, and both mother and partner should be present.