The Best Birth Podcast Episode 39 - Breaking the Barriers of Postpartum Care with Postpartum Doula Sarah Watkins
INTERVIEW OVERVIEW
In this episode, Jen and Sarah discuss postpartum and newborn care. They explore the difference between a postpartum doula and a birth doula, and the importance of having support during the postpartum period. Sarah shares her journey into this line of work and the need for personalized care. They also discuss the lack of education and resources for postpartum care and the barriers to accessing it. They provide tips for planning for the postpartum period, including setting boundaries with visitors and prioritizing self-care. They also emphasize the importance of lactation support and mental wellness during this time.
TAKEAWAYS
A postpartum doula provides support after the baby is born, while a birth doula focuses on the labor and birth process.
The postpartum period is often overlooked in terms of education and resources, but it is crucial for new parents to have support during this time.
Setting boundaries with visitors and prioritizing self-care are important for a smooth postpartum experience.
Lactation support and mental wellness are key aspects of postpartum care that should not be overlooked.
Access to postpartum care can be limited due to lack of awareness, financial constraints, and a shortage of providers.
Planning ahead and seeking support from trusted resources can help new parents navigate the challenges of the postpartum period.
WORDS OF WISDOM
A postpartum doula picks up the baton from the time after the baby is born and then onwards up to six months.
Having it organized in a way that trims down and brings it down to truly what are the most important factors and kind of tune out the noise.
Having a plan ahead of time is important, just like with a birth plan.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Overview
03:06 The Role of a Postpartum Doula
07:48 Lack of Education and Resources for Postpartum Care
14:08 Planning Ahead for the Postpartum Period
24:32 Setting Boundaries and Supportive Visitors
28:28 Educating Yourself on the Postpartum Period
35:41 Importance of Lactation Support
43:14 Mental Wellness in the Postpartum Period
48:14 Barriers to Accessing Postpartum Care
TALKING POINTS
postpartum care, newborn care, doula, birth doula, postpartum doula, personalized care, education, resources, barriers, planning, visitors, self-care, lactation support, mental wellness
RESOURCES
BOOK
The Fourth Trimester by Kimberly Ann Johnson
“The fourth trimester is not about getting back to normal; it’s about creating a new normal that honors the profound changes you’ve undergone.”
Sarah Watkins
Sarah’s doula service is born out of gratitude for the care she received during her birthing and postpartum experiences. As a leader in the industry, Sarah has worked in maternal newborn health for 26 years and has been a part owner with the Baby Hive for the last 8 years. As a wife and mother of 5 children, she empathizes with your needs and offers tried and tested strategies for success. In addition to her doula training, Sarah’s extensive hospital experience has taught her to think quickly and respond calmly. Sarah finds humor, joy and adventure in all seasons of life. She loves supporting families and provides continuity of care to support throughout antepartum, labor, delivery and postpartum. Since your needs don’t end in the hospital, Sarah’s wise and insightful approach eases your transition into parenthood." Sarah resides in Millcreek with her husband and children.
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