Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Postpartum Doula?

A Postpartum Doula is a support person and advocate for a Mother during her Postpartum period. There is not one specific set of tasks that define a Doula’s work. Instead it is simply somebody caring for the mother and helping her achieve her most optimum Postpartum. Common tasks of a Doula are cooking a mother’s meals, giving massage, talking to the mother about the huge transformation she is going through, being a shoulder to cry on, holding the baby while she showers, eats ect.

Because the relationship between Doula and Mother is quite intimate we are often the people a mother feels most comfortable being honest with (in comparison to other health professionals where the relationship is more formal). This puts us in a unique position to notice when a mother is needing additional support whether it be for her mental or physical health, breastfeeding advice or trouble bonding with her bub.

What areas do you service?

I do In Home Doula Care within the Illawarra / Wollongong Region, NSW. Broadly this is Waterfall - Kiama but I’m happy to discuss even if you live slightly outside this area.

For my Doula in a Basket service I deliver for free from Thirroul - North Wollongong. A small delivery fee will apply for other parts of the Illawarra.

When is the best time to hire a Postpartum Doula / Can I book services if I have already had my baby?

The best time to hire a Postpartum Doula is while you are pregnant. This is because it gives us time to plan and to get to know each other before you’re in the thick of Postpartum. But, If you have already had your baby and realise you need more support please still reach out. I can definitely still help you. I completely understand the emotions of thinking you were prepared only to find out you were not. There is so much I can still do to help you no matter how far into Postpartum you are. 

Do you offer Birth Doula Support?

No I don’t, although I love birth I feel that Postpartum is where there is a need for more support and this area specifically felt like my calling.

What are your Qualifications?

I am constantly learning and looking for courses which can expand my knowledge. So far my training includes:

Professional Postpartum Training, Newborn Mother Collective by Julia Jones

Ayurveda for Motherhood, Little Yarrow by Kate Harrison

I am also insured as a member of the Doula Network of Australia and have completed a Food Safety Course

Have you got a question you don’t see above? I’m happy to hear it stefthedoula@gmail.com