What Can a Postpartum Doula Actually Help With?
Welcoming a baby is a huge life transition — and many parents wonder, what kind of support will I really need? That’s where postpartum doulas come in. But what do we actually do? And what don’t we do?
I’m Patricia Grenseman, a virtual postpartum doula who helps families navigate the early weeks with confidence, calm, and personalized support, yes, even virtually!
Let’s break it down with three key ways a postpartum doula can support you — and one important thing we don’t handle.
1. Emotional Support (You’re Not Alone)
New parenthood can feel overwhelming, and sometimes you just need someone to talk to — someone who gets it.
As a postpartum doula, I offer non-judgmental listening, encouragement, and reassurance. Whether you’re feeling unsure, exhausted, or just need a moment to vent, I’m here.
I understand that these early weeks can feel like a rollercoaster so I include anytime texting at every level of my postpartum doula support packages. This way you can reach out without feeling guilty, weird, or shy. You’ve already paid for help so you might as well use it 😜
2. Baby Care Guidance (Without Overload)
There’s so much baby advice out there, and it can get overwhelming fast. I help parents figure out what works for their baby, offering tips on soothing, feeding, sleep basics, and safe newborn care — all without adding to the noise.
Need a quick guide to soothing and caring for your baby? Download my free Newborn Care Cheat Sheet — it’s got tips I share with every new parent I support.
Want to know whether to try for more naps or fewer feedings? Do. Not. Ask. The. Internet. Just check in with me and know that I’m bringing my years of parenting my own babies and supporting lots of other parents with these same questions to the table, and I’ll always make sure I really understand where you’re coming from first, so that you get the answers you truly need, even if you didn’t know it yet.
3. Practical Support (Yes, Even Virtually!)
Even from a distance, I can help you manage your day, create simple routines, troubleshoot common challenges with your baby, and support you in getting rest and recovery. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
My favorite things to help with (even virtually!) are unboxing baby gear, helping you recognize hunger and sleep cues, and helping your baby sleep better.
I know you want to handle all the baby care—you’re the one who’s been waiting for this baby all this time! But you don’t want to have to actually do it alone. So this is where my virtual support allows me to walk this road with you so you don’t nearly burn out in the process.
What I Don’t Do: Medical Advice or Clinical Tasks
I’m not a medical provider, and I don’t give medical advice or perform clinical tasks. I’m here to support you emotionally and practically, and to help you know when to reach out to your healthcare team if needed.
I’ll also help you figure out which provider to connect with, some of whom you might not even have realized exist yet (infant feeding specialist? craniosacral fascial theraphist? yes that is a thing!!)
Want more? I go into much more depth about what postpartum doulas can and can’t do in this other blog post.
Curious what virtual postpartum doula care could look like for your family? Check out my support packages and see what might feel good for you
