Doula Postpartum Care

[sraplayas]

My sister is having her baby soon and I'll be staying with her for a week, probably a week after she gives birth, depending on when that happens!

I would love some advice on what you think is most needed during this time.  I'll be bringing DS with me (21mos) and of course, I can remember what it was like to be "lying in" but I want to be sensitive to her (don't think she'll be lying in). 

These are some of my ideas:

make her food--protein fruit shakes, yummy egg scrambles, teas, etc.

hold baby while she bathes, takes a nap, watches tv, etc.

clean, wash clothes, etc.

entertain her DS

???

Also, it is possible that I could be there for the birth.  I am arriving on her due date, but she thinks that the OB is off by one week and he's coming early. 

If I am there for the birth, she wants me in the room with her (hospital).  She isn't using a midwive or doula at this point.  She does want a natural birth.  The hospital does not allow children in the ward.  What would you do ahead of time if you were in my place?

I love my sis and just want to be really helpful and nurturing to her in this time!

Thanks!

[MoonHasBeams]

No real suggestions from me, just wanted to say that I think this is a really thoughtful, awesome gesture. Good luck to your sister!

[sraplayas]

Thank you:)

I'm hoping to have some good suggestions!

[JamieCatheryn]

For the birth, ask her about if she's thought about whether she wants the various routine procedures or if she's asking for alternatives, so you can help support her in her wishes whatever they are. This will also help alert her to the choices she has if she hasn't thought about it. Stuff like continuous monitoring, laboring in bed, IV vs heplock, eating and drinking, rupture of membranes, Pit augmentation if labor's slow. Ask how she pictures it going and what she wants you to do to help.

The best thing I think one can do for a postpartum new mom is take care of everything she'd normally want to do herself and remind her to just relax and feed and cuddle her baby, nothing extra. I needed snacks often at first after both births my blood sugar would drop suddenly so keep quick food handy. If she's a neat freak at all stay really on top of the cleaning just like she would. Keep her older DS feeling like the center of attention some too, it's a tough time for new big siblings.

[mitintraining]

I agree with PP, ask her how she wants to birth, what she thinks she may need.  Also make sure she is not getting up to cook/clean etc in the first few days.  It helps  Good luck and good job on being a good sister!