Traditional Home Postpartum Care

Warm Welcome Birth Services Michelle L'Esperance, CPM

Traditional Home Postpartum Care    Home postpartum care "cocoons" the family in the early weeks, making the transition more gentle and joyful. This is modeled after the profound level of care that women have traditionally recieved from each other in cultures around the world. May include any of the following: herbal baths (for mother and baby), baby care, caregiver instruction in Infant Massage, moxibustion, acupressure, light housekeeping, and preparation of deeply nutritious meals. I am experienced in cooking organic vegetarian/vegan, Ayurvedic (Indian), macrobiotic, or meat-&-potatoes meals- what's your preference? Helpful guidance with breastfeeding questions will help you and your baby become attuned to each other as a nursing couple. Learn practical strategies for adjusting to the many physical, social, and emotional changes of the postpartum period. Research shows that mothers who have ample practical help and emotional support are much less likely to experience postpartum depression. Beneficial for first-time mothers, single moms, families with other children at home, any mother who had a complicated birth, or couples who want to settle in  and enjoy a nourishing "honeymoon" with their new little one. You may arrange for 4 to 20 hours of postpartum care each week. Advance reservations are recommended. Weekday daytime rate is $25/hour, and weekend care is $30/hour. Overnight care is sometimes available. Home and family care is also available for women who are on bedrest in pregnancy, or for women who are recovering from perinatal loss. I have experience helping women and families dealing with special circumstances, including postpartum stress and depression, premature infants, and the extra joys and challenges of multiples.

The services of an experienced postpartum doula can dramatically ease the newborn transition period for the family. The reality for many families today is that their immediate families live far away,  or are for some other reason unable to directly support the needs of the new family. Doulas help re-create the "village" that traditionally nurtured, honored, and served a new mother and family. Gift Certificates Available.

"Michelle provided wonderful insight about everything from nutrition to infant massage.  Her compassionate approach enriched my health and well-being during my postpartum time"--First-time mother, New Salem, MA.

DOULA TRAINING WORKSHOP: Four life-changing days will prepare you to skillfully guide women through the incredible mystery and tranformation of childbirth. Fall, 2008, Northampton area. Follow-up mentoring with Midwife included. Call or email for details.

Michelle L'Esperance Certified Professional Midwife (413) 586-3648

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