What Is Postpartum Holistic Care?

Postpartum 101

Pregnant bodies receive a lot of attention in the months leading up to childbirth, but it’s often the months afterwards that are the most challenging. There are meal trains, quick hospital visits, and helping relatives for those first few weeks post-delivery—but what then? What most people often experience is a profound sense of loneliness and fear as they realize that, although an amazing experience, taking care of their baby can feel overwhelming. Postpartum doula services can make all the difference during this pivotal time. If you’re not sure what this entails, we’ll give you a general idea below.

Breastfeeding Guidance

If you’ve never had a baby before, breastfeeding can be an ultra-challenging task. From getting the baby to latch and dealing with irritated nipples to fear that you’re not producing enough and learning to pump, the whole experience can feel like you’re trying to climb Mt. Everest. Having a doula on hand to support you through this can be incredibly helpful, and hopefully be a launch pad for a long and productive nursing experience. 

Food as Medicine and Botanical Solutions

It can take up to 10 months to create and birth a baby. That is a lot of changes for a body to go through. Dr Shani Cooper was drawn to East Asian Medicine for the way it honors the birthing body, particularly in the postpartum period, providing a framework for healing and recovery during the fourth trimester. Providing nourishing tools and care for the mind, body, and spirit after the rebirth into parenthood. 

Emotional and Physical Support

If this is your first time having a baby, you might be surprised by the physical toll it takes on your body. Being reborn in birth requires you to understand that you are forever changed. Balancing newborn care and shifting hormones, your emotions will also be all over the place. Dr Shani will ensure you that this is all normal, which is often all you really need to feel better! 

If the emotional or physical pain continue and are a concern to you both, your doula has plenty of information to use in referring you for further treatment. And the services won’t end without you having access to other local resources, including lactation support groups, parenting support, and pediatrician contact information. 

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Postpartum care services are catered to your specific needs. Our care plans can last from 6 weeks to 3 months after you and your child comes home. These sessions are about healing the birthing body and creating healing flow within the home to aid in creating a healthy transition into parenthood. Want to learn more about how we can help ease your post-delivery experience if you live in La Mesa or elsewhere in San Diego County? Contact us at Root & Soul today.