Sophia Tschida she/her
Experienced full spectrum doula, advocate & educator on Bainbrigde Island, WA
Now offering postpartum doula services to all birthing families in north and Central kitsap & east jefferson counties.
I am no longer accepting new BIRTH doula clients - I have some limited availability for repeat BIRTH DOULA clients - please reach out!
WHAT IS POSTPARTUM?
Postpartum, often referred to as the "fourth trimester," is the period immediately following childbirth. This phase typically lasts six to twelve weeks but can extend longer depending on individual circumstances. All it really means is that you have carried a pregnancy and given birth! Some folks say postpartum lasts forever. It is a time of significant physical, emotional, and psychological change as new parents adjust to life with a newborn while the birthing person’s body recovers from pregnancy and childbirth.
WHAT IS A POSTPARTUM DOULA?
A postpartum doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and educational support to a birthing person and their family after the birth of a baby. Unlike a midwife or medical professional, the postpartum doula’s focus is on nurturing the birthing person, helping them recover from childbirth, and adjusting to life with a newborn. A postpartum doula is an invaluable resource for families during the 4th trimester. Postpartum Doulas empower birthing people to feel confident and cared for, helping the whole family transition smoothly into their new life together. Whether you are seeking a helping hand, expert guidance, or just someone to listen, a postpartum doula can be a lifeline for many new parents during one of life’s most transformative phases
The Role of a Postpartum Doula:
Some examples of how a Postpartum Doula can support you and your family during the fourth trimester:
Emotional Support: The transition into your “new normal” and life in general after birth can be overwhelming, especially with the hormonal, lifestyle and identity changes that occur. A postpartum doula offers deep listening and camaraderie, and helps birthing people begin to process their birth story, navigate emotional challenges, as well as provide support and referrals for more acute mental health needs.
Newborn Care Assistance: From diaper changes to soothing techniques, a postpartum doula offers hands-on support with caring for a newborn, including advice on feeding, bathing, and comforting the baby.
Breastfeeding and Feeding Guidance: Many postpartum doulas have training in breastfeeding support, helping birthing people with latch issues, positioning, and understanding milk supply. They can also assist with bottle feeding or chestfeeding and helping to trouble shoot common issues and navigate concerns.
Physical Recovery Support: Childbirth takes a toll on the body, and a doula helps the birthing person in their healing process by encouraging rest, coping skills for sleep deprivation, proper nutrition, and gentle self-care practices.
Household Assistance: Postpartum doulas may help with light household tasks such as meal preparation, laundry, or tidying up. A Postpartum Doula can also assist with errands and support during appointments. This support allows the birthing person to focus on bonding with the baby and recovering, without the stress of household responsibilities.
Family Support: A Postpartum doula can offer guidance on how to involve other family members in caring for the birthing person and baby, as well as provide support to partners and non-birthing parents during this period of adjustment.
INTERSECTIONALITY & INCLUSION:
I believe that birth-work is political. I provide anti-racist support and resources to all birthing people - folks of all races, belief systems or religions, cultures, income, age, body size, marital status, family structure, language, gender identity or sexuality. Through collaboration, I provide information and resources tailored to diverse needs, while advocate for systemic change that promotes equity and accessibility across systems in order to promote better outcomes and a more inclusive experience for birthing folks and their families. I identify as a multi-ethnic, white presenting, Queer, fat, cis-gendered Doula and share those identities in an attempt to build trust, safety and camaraderie with my clients.
