FAQ

What does an overnight doula do?

An overnight doula stays in the same room as or near to your baby, responding throughout the night for feeds, changes, and whatever else is needed.

We will work together to create a plan based on your preferences and feeding routine. 

My first priority is for rest, for both baby and parents.

My second priority is to encourage, empower, and provide insight into your questions.

My third priority is to help optimize the overnight routine so that even after I leave, your family can continue to experience more restful nights.

How is an overnight doula different from a daytime doula?

A daytime doula has a much wider range of resources to provide, often including pumping and breastfeeding support, postpartum education, and even light chores. Daytime and overnight doulas share the same goal, to provide support to parents and babies, but an overnight shift emphasizes the focus on parent and newborn sleep.

If you are looking for daytime care, lactation support, or other guidance, there are several incredible resources in the Chippewa Valley:

What if I want to breastfeed?

My care for each family is highly individualized. Before you go to bed, we will work together to form a game plan of what you would like the night to look like. This could mean that I bring your baby to you in bed so that you can nurse without getting up, or we could meet in the living room or nursery, or wherever you prefer to breastfeed. I will still change, soothe, and provide all other care for your baby so that you can go back to sleep. 

Is your service only for newborns?

Nope! I am happy to provide service for your baby all the way up to one year. 

Are you awake for the entire overnight shift?

If newborn care requires me to be awake for the entire overnight shift, then yes, of course. However, it's more common for me to complete preparation and planning in the first couple of hours of the evening and then have the space to rest in between wakings/feedings. I ask for either a couch, recliner, or bed to be able to rest during these times, and while I prefer to be in the same room as your baby, if that is not possible, I will need a monitor. During the last hour of the shift, I will finish all documentation and do one last diaper change before our check-in or seeing myself out. 

What does a typical overnight shift look like?

✦ We chat and work together to create a plan for the night

✦ As soon as you feel confident and comfortable, I send you off to bed

✦ I prepare bottles for the night according to our plan.

✦ Throughout the night, I keep notes of all observations and tasks

✦ If applicable, I bring your baby to you for breastfeeding, giving space or support as needed

✦ I spend the night providing all other newborn care, including diapers, burping, soothing, and more.

✦ We have a morning check-in to go over the night and notes

✦ I will leave you feeling rested, confident, and connected to your baby.