Are you feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of navigating life after giving birth? If so, you’re not alone!
Today I’ve got the inside scoop on a fantastic service that can make a world of difference in your postpartum journey: postpartum doulas!
These incredible professionals are here to support, educate, and nurture you during those crucial first weeks with your newborn.
Inland Empire Postpartum Doula Isabela Cuevas/ Sweet Beginning Doula is sharing all about the postpartum experience and her tips for a smooth transition to life with a new baby!
What is a postpartum doula and how do they differ from a birth doula?
A postpartum doula supports families in the weeks after birth, focusing on the mother’s recovery, newborn care, and easing the transition into parenthood. Their care can include feeding guidance, newborn education, light household help, meal prep, emotional reassurance, and making space for the mother to rest. The goal is to reduce stress, build confidence, and help the whole family feel cared for.
A birth doula, in contrast, supports families during pregnancy and labor. They provide continuous emotional and physical support with comfort measures like breathing, massage, positioning, advocacy, and helping parents navigate choices in their birth setting.
The key difference is timing and focus:
- Birth doulas are present for labor and delivery, centered on the birthing person’s experience.
- Postpartum doulas step in after birth, centered on recovery, bonding, and newborn care.
Both roles offer nonjudgmental, nurturing support—just at different stages of the journey into parenthood.
What inspired you to become a postpartum doula?
My inspiration to become a postpartum doula came from witnessing how tender, transformative, and sometimes overwhelming those first weeks after birth can be. I saw how much new families benefit when someone comes alongside them and not with judgment or pressure, but with compassion, knowledge, and practical support.
As a nurse and mother myself, I experienced firsthand the gap between the medical care families receive in the hospital and the ongoing, heart-centered support needed once they’re home. While birth is a single day, postpartum is a whole season of healing, learning, and bonding. Too often, families are expected to navigate it on their own.
I felt called to fill that gap: to nurture mothers as they recover, to guide families as they learn about feeding and newborn care, and to hold space for the emotions that arise in this sacred transition. For me, being a postpartum doula is about creating a calm, supportive environment where families can feel confident, cared for, and truly seen.
What kind of training and certifications do you have as a postpartum doula?
My journey as a postpartum doula is rooted in both personal experience and professional training. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and have completed DONA International’s postpartum doula training, which is one of the leading and most widely respected organizations in the doula field. I am currently completing my certification packet with DONA, which includes hands-on experience, continuing education, and client feedback to ensure the highest standard of care.
In addition, I’ve trained as a Certified Lactation Counselor through the Healthy Children Project, allowing me to support families with both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. I also maintain CPR and Infant CPR certification to ensure safety in every situation.
Beyond formal certifications, I continue to expand my knowledge through workshops, mentorship, and evidence-based resources on topics like newborn care, maternal recovery, and holistic postpartum wellness. This ongoing learning allows me to provide both practical guidance and emotional support that is current, compassionate, and tailored to each family’s needs.
How do you personalize your services to meet the unique needs of each family
Every family’s postpartum journey is unique, so my support is never one-size-fits-all. I begin by listening to each family’s story, their hopes, concerns, and daily rhythm, then shape my care around what they need most. Sometimes that means hands-on newborn help, feeding support, or meal prep. Other times it’s creating a calm space for rest or offering reassurance during late-night hours.
Since needs often change, I check in regularly and adjust as we go. My role is to be part of their village in a way that respects their parenting style, culture, and preferences, so they feel empowered, cared for, and confident as they welcome their new baby.
What does a typical day look like when you’re working with a family?
The truth is—no two days look exactly alike, because every family has different rhythms and needs. But there are some common threads in how I structure my time with them.
A typical day might begin with checking in with the mother: How is she feeling emotionally and physically? Did she get any rest? From there, I often prepare a nourishing meal or snack while we talk through questions about recovery or newborn care.
I may support with feeding, whether nursing, pumping, or bottle-feeding, and step in with baby care so mom can rest, shower, or simply take a quiet moment for herself.
Other parts of the day might include light household tasks—like folding baby laundry, tidying the kitchen, or sanitizing bottles—so the family can focus on bonding instead of chores. Sometimes we review soothing techniques, babywearing, or strategies for easing the transition if there are older siblings in the home.
Every visit weaves together practical support and emotional reassurance. My goal is for families to feel lighter, more confident, and nurtured by the time I leave.
How do you support new mothers who are struggling with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding?
Feeding can be one of the biggest stressors for new parents, especially when it doesn’t go as smoothly as hoped. My role is to bring calm, reassurance, and practical guidance, whether a family chooses breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or both.
For breastfeeding, I offer support with positioning, latch, and comfort, drawing on my training as a lactation counselor. If needed, I connect families with an IBCLC for additional care. For bottle-feeding, I help create sustainable routines, from preparing bottles and safe storage to paced feeding for baby’s comfort.
Beyond the technical side, I focus on the emotional experience. Feeding is about nourishment, but also bonding, confidence, and honoring the choices that work best for each family. Sometimes that means problem-solving, and other times it’s simply being present, reminding a mother she’s not alone and she’s doing a beautiful job.
What are some common emotional challenges faced by new parents, and how do you help them cope?
The postpartum period is often described as a “fourth trimester,” and it brings with it a wide range of emotions. While it’s a time of joy and love, many parents also face challenges like:
Feeling overwhelmed or anxious about caring for a newborn.
Experiencing mood shifts from hormonal changes, exhaustion, or lack of support.
Guilt or pressure around feeding choices, sleep, or parenting decisions.
Loneliness or isolation, especially if family or community support is limited.
Struggles with identity, as parents adjust to the new role of motherhood or fatherhood while balancing personal needs.
As a postpartum doula, I help parents navigate these emotions by first creating a safe space to talk openly without judgment. Sometimes simply having someone listen with compassion makes a world of difference. I also encourage rest, self-care, and realistic expectations, reminding parents that it’s okay not to “have it all together.”
When needed, I share gentle coping strategies like grounding techniques, daily check-ins, or small routines that bring calm. If I notice signs of deeper postpartum mood disorders, I connect families with trusted mental health professionals and resources so they have the right support in place.
Ultimately, my goal is to reassure parents that they’re not alone that their feelings are valid, and that with the right support, they can move through this season with more confidence and peace.
Can you provide support for families who have chosen to use cloth diapers or practice baby-led weaning?
Absolutely! One of the things I love most about being a postpartum doula is meeting families right where they are and supporting the choices that feel best for them.
For families interested in cloth diapering, I can help with the basics—understanding different types of cloth diapers, learning how to properly wash and store them, and finding a system that feels realistic for daily life. Often, just having someone walk through the setup and troubleshooting can make the process feel much less intimidating.
When it comes to baby-led weaning (BLW), I provide guidance on readiness cues, safe first foods, and how to create a positive, stress-free mealtime experience. My goal is to help parents feel confident introducing solids in a way that encourages independence and curiosity while also respecting each family’s pace and comfort level.
At the heart of it, whether it’s cloth diapering, BLW, or any other parenting choice, my role is to support without judgment, offer education when needed, and cheer families on as they find the routines that work best for their unique household.
How do you work with families who have multiples, such as twins or triplets?
Supporting families with multiples is such a unique and special part of my work. While the joys are multiplied, so are the needs—feeding, soothing, and caring for more than one newborn at a time can feel overwhelming without an extra set of hands.
My role is to bring both practical systems and emotional reassurance into the home. With multiples, that often means:
Helping parents establish realistic feeding routines, whether breast/chestfeeding, bottle-feeding, or a combination.
Offering strategies for soothing and sleep—sometimes tandem, sometimes staggered—to help the whole family get more rest.
Assisting with organization, like prepping bottles, setting up diapering stations, or creating a calm environment where both (or all!) babies can be cared for efficiently.
Caring for the babies so parents can rest, shower, or spend one-on-one time with each child, which is especially important for bonding.
Equally important is the emotional support. Parents of multiples often feel pulled in many directions, and I provide reassurance that they’re doing an incredible job, while also reminding them it’s okay to lean on their support system.
Every family finds their own rhythm, and my goal is to help them discover what works best for their household so that life with twins or triplets feels not only manageable, but joyful
How do you assist with sibling adjustment when a new baby arrives?
Welcoming a new baby is exciting, but it can also be a big transition for older siblings. It’s normal for children to feel a mix of emotions—love and curiosity alongside jealousy, confusion, or a need for extra attention.
As a postpartum doula, I support sibling adjustment in ways that honor each child’s age and personality:
Involving siblings in care: I encourage small, age-appropriate tasks, like bringing a diaper, choosing baby’s outfit, or singing to the baby. This helps older children feel included and proud of their role.
Protecting one-on-one time: I step in with the baby so parents can spend a little special time with their older child, reinforcing their sense of security and importance.
Modeling gentle interactions: I guide siblings on safe, loving ways to interact with the baby, which eases anxiety and builds confidence.
Validating feelings: I remind parents (and siblings) that it’s okay to have big feelings during this adjustment—it’s part of the process.
Every family dynamic is unique, so I tailor my approach to fit the child’s needs—whether that’s extra play, conversations about becoming a big brother or sister, or simply creating space for them to express their emotions. My goal is to help siblings feel loved, seen, and reassured that the new baby doesn’t change their place in the family’s heart.
What kind of resources do you provide to help parents learn about infant care and development?
One of my favorite parts of being a postpartum doula is connecting families with tools that make them feel confident and empowered in caring for their little one. I share resources in a way that’s easy to digest and tailored to each family’s needs and learning style.
Some examples include:
Evidence-based handouts and guides on topics like safe sleep, soothing techniques, feeding, and newborn development milestones.
Personal demonstrations during visits and showing parents how to swaddle, bathe, or wear their baby, and then guiding them as they try it themselves.
Recommended courses and books, such as childbirth and parenting classes, lactation resources, or child development reads that align with their parenting style.
Local referrals, including IBCLCs for lactation, pediatric specialists, support groups, and community programs.
Practical tips and checklists for daily routines, from baby care basics to self-care reminders for parents.
I also provide ongoing support through text, phone, or email, so parents can ask questions as they come up and feel reassured they’re not alone in figuring things out. My goal is to meet families right where they are whether they want structured guidance or gentle reassurance and give them tools that fit naturally into their everyday life.
How do you handle situations where a new parent is struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety?
Postpartum depression and anxiety are more common than many families realize, and the most important first step is helping parents know they are not alone and that what they’re experiencing is not their fault.
As a postpartum doula, my role is to provide nonjudgmental emotional support and to gently recognize when a parent may be struggling beyond the normal ups and downs of early postpartum life. I listen openly, validate their feelings, and reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
From there, I:
Encourage rest and self-care, since exhaustion can heighten symptoms.
Offer practical help (like infant care, meals, or household tasks) to lighten their load.
Share evidence-based resources about postpartum mood and anxiety disorders so they understand what they’re experiencing.
Connect them to professional support by providing referrals to trusted mental health providers, support groups, or hotlines when appropriate.
While I don’t diagnose or provide therapy, I act as a caring bridge making sure parents feel seen, supported, and guided toward the professional help they need. My priority is to create a safe space where families know they don’t have to navigate these feelings alone, and that healing is absolutely possible with the right care and community around them.
Are You Trained to Recognize Signs of Postpartum Mood Disorders and Recommend Appropriate Support?
Yes. As a postpartum doula, part of my training includes learning how to recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) such as postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD. These conditions can show up in different ways from persistent sadness or excessive worry to changes in sleep, appetite, or bonding with the baby.
While I do not diagnose or provide medical treatment, I am trained to notice red flags early and to approach parents with compassion and nonjudgment. If I sense a parent may be struggling, I create a safe space for them to share their feelings and gently encourage them to seek professional help.
I provide families with resources and referrals such as mental health providers specializing in perinatal care, lactation consultants, or support organizations like Postpartum Support International (PSI). I also stay connected with the family, offering ongoing encouragement and practical support at home while they access the professional care they need.
In short, my role is to be an extra set of eyes and ears during a vulnerable time helping parents feel less alone, validating their experience, and guiding them toward the right support so they can heal and thrive.
What Are Some Strategies You Use to Help Parents Establish a Healthy Sleep Routine for Their Newborn?
Newborn sleep can feel unpredictable, and it’s one of the biggest challenges parents face in the early weeks. My approach is to create gentle, realistic routines that support both the baby’s natural rhythms and the parents’ need for rest.
Some strategies I use include:
Understanding newborn sleep patterns: I reassure parents that it’s normal for babies to wake frequently in the first months, since their sleep cycles are short and their tummies are small. Knowing what’s “normal” often reduces anxiety.
Creating a calm sleep environment: I guide families in setting up a safe, soothing space—dim lighting, white noise if helpful, and a consistent nighttime routine to signal that it’s time to rest.
Day vs. night cues: I encourage keeping days bright and interactive, while nights are quiet and calm. This helps babies learn the difference between daytime play and nighttime sleep.
Safe sleep practices: I review evidence-based guidelines for safe sleep, such as placing baby on their back in a separate sleep space without loose blankets or toys.
Supporting parental rest: I often step in during visits so parents can nap, and I share tips for trading off responsibilities to avoid burnout.
My goal is never perfection but balance helping families find rhythms that promote better rest while respecting each baby’s unique needs. Over time, these small, consistent steps build a foundation for healthy sleep habits that benefit the whole family.
Would you like me to expand this into a practical tip list for parents (like a “Top 5 Doula-Approved Sleep Tips” format), or keep it in this gentle narrative style for the blog?
How Do You Help Parents Maintain a Strong Bond and Open Communication During the Postpartum Period?
The postpartum period is a season of huge change not just for the baby, but for the parents and their relationship as well. Sleepless nights, recovery, and new responsibilities can sometimes leave couples feeling disconnected or overwhelmed. My role is to help create space for connection and communication in the midst of it all.
Some ways I support this include:
Encouraging teamwork: I show both parents ways they can share responsibilities whether that’s dividing feeding tasks, soothing shifts, or household duties and so no one feels alone in the work of caring for the baby.
Facilitating conversations: Sometimes parents don’t know how to express what they need. I encourage gentle check-ins, like asking, “How can I support you today?” or “What’s feeling hardest for you right now?” These simple prompts open the door to deeper understanding.
Protecting couple time: By caring for the baby, I give parents a chance to enjoy a meal together, take a walk, or simply rest side by side without constant interruption.
Normalizing the ups and downs: I remind families that challenges are normal, and that open, honest communication without judgment is one of the best ways to protect their bond.
Ultimately, I help parents see themselves not just as caregivers, but as partners walking through this transition together. By fostering teamwork and empathy, I aim to strengthen both their relationship with each other and their confidence as a family unit.
Are you trained to recognize signs of postpartum mood disorders and recommend appropriate support?
Yes. As a postpartum doula, part of my training includes learning how to recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) such as postpartum depression, anxiety, or OCD. These conditions can show up in different ways from persistent sadness or excessive worry to changes in sleep, appetite, or bonding with the baby.
While I do not diagnose or provide medical treatment, I am trained to notice red flags early and to approach parents with compassion and nonjudgment. If I sense a parent may be struggling, I create a safe space for them to share their feelings and gently encourage them to seek professional help.
I provide families with resources and referrals such as mental health providers specializing in perinatal care, lactation consultants, or support organizations like Postpartum Support International (PSI). I also stay connected with the family, offering ongoing encouragement and practical support at home while they access the professional care they need.
In short, my role is to be an extra set of eyes and ears during a vulnerable time helping parents feel less alone, validating their experience, and guiding them toward the right support so they can heal and thrive.
What are some strategies you use to help parents establish a healthy sleep routine for their newborn?
Newborn sleep can feel unpredictable, and it’s one of the biggest challenges parents face in the early weeks. My approach is to create gentle, realistic routines that support both the baby’s natural rhythms and the parents’ need for rest.
Some strategies I use include:
Understanding newborn sleep patterns: I reassure parents that it’s normal for babies to wake frequently in the first months, since their sleep cycles are short and their tummies are small. Knowing what’s “normal” often reduces anxiety.
Creating a calm sleep environment: I guide families in setting up a safe, soothing space—dim lighting, white noise if helpful, and a consistent nighttime routine to signal that it’s time to rest.
Day vs. night cues: I encourage keeping days bright and interactive, while nights are quiet and calm. This helps babies learn the difference between daytime play and nighttime sleep.
Safe sleep practices: I review evidence-based guidelines for safe sleep, such as placing baby on their back in a separate sleep space without loose blankets or toys.
Supporting parental rest: I often step in during visits so parents can nap, and I share tips for trading off responsibilities to avoid burnout.
My goal is never perfection but balance helping families find rhythms that promote better rest while respecting each baby’s unique needs. Over time, these small, consistent steps build a foundation for healthy sleep habits that benefit the whole family.
How do you help parents maintain a strong bond and open communication during the postpartum period?
The postpartum period is a season of huge change and not just for the baby, but for the parents and their relationship as well. Sleepless nights, recovery, and new responsibilities can sometimes leave couples feeling disconnected or overwhelmed. My role is to help create space for connection and communication in the midst of it all.
Some ways I support this include:
Encouraging teamwork: I show both parents ways they can share responsibilities whether that’s dividing feeding tasks, soothing shifts, or household duties and so no one feels alone in the work of caring for the baby.
Facilitating conversations: Sometimes parents don’t know how to express what they need. I encourage gentle check-ins, like asking, “How can I support you today?” or “What’s feeling hardest for you right now?” These simple prompts open the door to deeper understanding.
Protecting couple time: By caring for the baby, I give parents a chance to enjoy a meal together, take a walk, or simply rest side by side without constant interruption.
Normalizing the ups and downs: I remind families that challenges are normal, and that open, honest communication without judgment is one of the best ways to protect their bond.
Ultimately, I help parents see themselves not just as caregivers, but as partners walking through this transition together. By fostering teamwork and empathy, I aim to strengthen both their relationship with each other and their confidence as a family unit.
The postpartum period can be both incredibly rewarding and challenging, so having the support of a knowledgeable, compassionate professional can make all the difference.
So, go ahead and explore the world of postpartum doulas – you’ll be glad you did!
Click here to learn more about working with Isabel Cuevas/ Sweet Beginning Doula
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Curious about Where to find Breastfeeding Support + Where to find it
? Click here to read Where to find Breastfeeding Support + Where to find it
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