what new parents need…but aren’t getting

The last year has revealed to some what parents have known for a long time: parents often do not get the support they need in the fourth trimester and beyond. To thrive as humans and to make our children thrive, we need more. Here are just a few of the things new parents need.

1. Time to Rest, Heal, and Bond

   In the US, parents are not guaranteed parental leave, and most are going back to work within weeks (sometimes days) of the birth of a baby. Even the “standard” twelve weeks will most likely not feel like enough time. Parents need support, so they can rest, heal, and bond with baby for as long as possible.

2. Realistic, Evidence-Based Information and Expectations

   While in the past, expecting parents would go to a doctor, family, or a book for information, many are turning to the Internet. While this can be amazing and has brought about great changes, it creates opportunities for mis-information and overwhelm. Parents need real information that will adequately prepare them for parenthood (like a doula, hint hint.)

3. Postpartum Physiological Care

   Birth parents must have space and support to heal (as well as have that evidence-based information about what needs to heal.) Most are unprepared and shocked about the changes pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period will have on a body and mind.

4. A Support System

   I truly believe in the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” And all parents need an extensive support system: a doctor, a doula, a lactation consultant, a mom group on top of friends and family. My prenatal meeting helps parents set this up.

5. Acceptance

   Instead of advice, horror stories, and judgment, parents need to hear, “You’re doing a great job,” or “Your baby is so lucky to have you.”

While you might be able to control how much paid leave you get or the judgmental comments of others, you can definitely take steps to enter parenthood informed and supported. Check out my services to learn more or contact me!

Hi there! I’m Gigi and am a postpartum doula in Orange County + beyond. I have three kiddos (including twins) and a high-school sweetheart-turned-husband. I’ve always been a teacher but realized I was meant to teach parents and help them through the fourth trimester. I love forcing my friends and family to listen to me talk about zero waste, reading YA novels, and watching terrible reality shows.

Want to chat (especially about the Bachelor or cloth diapers or babies?) Connect with me through e-mail or on Instagram!