What each mother needs during the postpartum period varies. My role as a postpartum doula is not to become a housekeeper or nanny, but to nurture and support a mother and her family during a time when they may be feeling overwhelmed by the incredible change that has taken place in their life. It can take time to learn how to balance this new life with all of the other tasks and chores that we need to do every day or week.
My services are flexible and tailored to your needs. I am able to travel anywhere on the N/NW side of Chicago or the Northern suburbs.
Any of the following services can be provided:
- Baby care (while you take a shower, go for a walk, take a nap, etc.)
- Light housekeeping: sweeping/ vacuuming, dishes, laundry (at your house o
r mine). I do not do deep cleaning or pet care, but I do have the names of several reliable and affordable cleaning persons, so please feel free to ask me for references. - Breastfeeding assistance: While I am not a lactation consultant, I can help you solve common breastfeeding issues. If your issues are beyond the scope of my knowledge, I am able to refer you to excellent LCs who can help you.
- Dog walking: I am happy to take your well-behaved pooch for a quick walk while you are recovering and unable to do so.
- Older child care: If you need someone to play with your older children, I can bring my eldest daughter along with me. She is an excellent mother’s helper and loves to play with toddlers and preschoolers. (Don’t worry, I pay her for her hard work!)
- Meal preparation. I make excellent freezer meals or I can occasionally prepare a fresh meal for your family. Dietary needs can easily be met.
- Errand running: I can run simple errands for you such as trips to the dry cleaners, library, or grocery store.
- Talking! A large part of postpartum work is simply helping the mother talk through and process her birth and her transition into motherhood (or the mothering of another child in addition to the children she has already adjusted to). I can help you with this emotional change.
- Assistance with babywearing and cloth diapering, if you choose to incorporate either of these parenting choices into your life. I have several slings and wraps that I can bring over for you to try on with your new babe.
My fees for these services vary based on your needs and the time of day and day of the week that you would like me to assist you. Please email me for more information.
