What does a postpartum doula actually do?

A postpartum doula provides hands-on support after birth, including newborn care, feeding guidance, emotional support, and help with household tasks so you can rest and heal.

Can I hire a doula if I'm not planning a natural birth?

Absolutely. Doulas support all types of birth — whether it's unmedicated, epidural-assisted, or planned cesarean. The goal is always to empower and support your choices.

Do you offer sleep coaching for newborns?

Yes. My sleep coaching approach is gentle and rooted in connection, not cry-it-out. I help you understand your baby’s cues and establish rhythms that promote rest for everyone.

Ask Jacqueline | Evidence-Informed Answers on Doula, Birth, Postpartum & Newborn Care

Ask Jacqueline

Real answers to the questions families ask most — offered with care, clarity, and a deep respect for your experience. Every response reflects years of birthwork, postpartum care, and gentle newborn support across the U.S.

☁️ When should I hire a doula?
It’s never too early — most families book during the second trimester. This allows time to build trust, create a birth or postpartum plan, and ensure availability. Last-minute births can still be supported, but early booking guarantees continuity of care.

☁️ Do you attend hospital, home, and birth center births?
Yes. I support all birth settings — home births, hospitals, and birth centers. My role remains the same: emotional grounding, advocacy, comfort measures, and helping you feel safe and respected wherever you birth.

☁️ Do you offer postpartum care if I didn’t have a doula at my birth?
Absolutely. Many families reach out after birth for emotional check-ins, newborn feeding help, or sleep rhythm support. Postpartum care is open to everyone, whether or not I attended your birth.

☁️ What does newborn care or gentle sleep support include?
I guide families through understanding their baby’s cues, creating realistic rest routines, and developing secure sleep habits — without using Cry-It-Out or extinction methods. The focus is on rhythm, responsiveness, and confidence.

☁️ How does virtual support work?
Virtual sessions are offered via video or phone, with access to personalized resources and messaging between calls. Many families love the flexibility and ongoing presence of virtual care — it often feels just as connected as in-person visits.

☁️ What are your payment options?
You can pay via PayPal, Klarna, or HoneyBook with flexible installment plans. HSA and FSA funds are also accepted for eligible services. Transparent pricing is available on my Support Packages page.

☁️ Do you work with partners or family members during visits?
Yes. I support the entire family — not just the birthing person. Partners are guided through hands-on comfort techniques, communication strategies, and ways to feel confident and involved during postpartum transitions.

☁️ How do I get started?
Begin by scheduling a free consultation. We’ll talk through your goals, needs, and next steps. Reach out here to begin your journey →