Throughout human history new parents had support with their newborns around the clock from their friends and family. Now, most parents don’t have friends and family who are able to help overnight, and postpartum doulas are an option for nighttime support to help you get more rest. 

However, if you are a parent looking for someone who is knowledgeable and comfortable with nurturing biologically normal sleep and lactation then it’s important you hire the right professional. In this episode, I’m joined by Alex King, a postpartum doula who exclusively does overnight support. We talk about what a postpartum doula is and how they are different from night nurses and newborn care specialists. We share some questions parents can ask to get a good sense of the doulas lactation knowledge and comfort with supporting normal sleep and an attachment-based approach to sleep. 

We discussed what some red flags and green flags might be to show where a doula is on the same page as them and where they may not be aligned. It’s all about finding the right fit and as a parent, being clear about what you are looking for. Alex shares some of the ways her support helps parents create more of a set nighttime, helping circadian rhythm develop. And she reminds us that you are inviting a person into a very personal time and space so it’s important that you are really comfortable with them. I hope this episode will give you some ideas if you want to hire a postpartum doula for nighttime support whether you are pregnant with your first baby or looking ahead to a second baby or more. 

 
About Alex 

Alex King is a certified postpartum doula in Los Angeles California who specializes in working with families overnight. She is passionate about setting up babies, mamas, and families for success in the delicate postpartum period so they can enjoy the magic a new little one brings. 

Connect with Alex 

Instagram: @doula.alex.king

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