What is the difference between a birth doula and a postpartum doula?

A birth doula provides physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother during labor and delivery. A postpartum doula provides support during the postpartum period, which typically lasts for six weeks after childbirth.

The main difference between a birth doula and a postpartum doula is the time frame in which they provide support. Birth doulas typically only provide support during labor and delivery, while postpartum doulas provide support during the entire postpartum period.

Another difference between these two types of doulas is the focus of their support. Birth doulas primarily focus on providing physical and emotional support to mothers during labor, while postpartum doulas also provide practical support such as help with newborn care, breastfeeding, and light housekeeping.

If you are interested in having support during labor and delivery, you should consider hiring a birth doula. If you are interested in having support during the entire postpartum period, you should consider hiring a postpartum doula.

You can learn more about birth doulas and postpartum doulas, as well as find doulas in your area, by visiting the websites of several national organizations that provide support and resources for these professionals:

For example, Newborn Mothers offer professional training for individuals that want to become a postpartum doula. I’d suggest checking that out – you’ll see exactly how professional they are.

No matter what type of support you are looking for, there is sure to be a doula out there that can help you!