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Do You Doula?
Postpartum Doulas Support Breastfeeding Moms
By Kim Seidel
Newborns require anywhere from 16 to 20 hours of sleep each day. This is an area many parents don't understand. Without adequate sleep, a newborn will not breastfeed as easily, Hanson says.
"When looking for a doula, interview at lease two," Thompson says. "Find someone that will support your parenting preference. Then make sure you connect with her. She could have all the experience in the world, but if you don't connect, it will not be as good of an experience as it could be."
To find a doula in your area, check out national organizations, such as DONA International. "Moms should look for doulas that have been through training, have newborn experience and are passionate about being a doula," Hanson says.
The amount of time a doula spends with a family varies greatly. With families of multiples, a doula often works for several months. A family with one child typically needs a few hours a week for about two weeks, Thompson says.
Rates for postpartum doula services also vary across the country, from about $25 an hour to more for multiples and evening hours.
"I feel the benefits are different for every family, but having a doula provides support – plain and simple," Hanson says. "And when a new family has support, they can be the best parents possible and enjoy the newborn to the fullest."
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