A Birth Worker is a “woman caregiver”: someone who is experienced and trained to help the new mother and family. This service provides knowledgeable, caring, and personal support during those stressful first few weeks as new parents.
What does a Post-Partum Birth Worker do?
Physical comfort to new parents:
Helps family to care for her postpartum body
Encourages mom or caregiver to eat properly and drink plenty of fluids
Allows caregiver to rest when baby is resting or shower and nurture themselves
Support of choice to breast or bottle feed
Emotional support for the new family:
Listens to the story of the birth
Validates the normal adjustment process
Supports mother through emotional vulnerability
Supports father through transition to new role
Infant care guidance:
Supports mom and partner in their feeding choices
Educates new parent(s) on newborn care recommendations, including pumping breastmilk and proper storage of breastmilk and formula
Aids parents in developing their personal bonding styles
Provides solutions to common early breastfeeding challenges
Household assistance, if requested
Prepares meals and snacks for the new mother and family