Postpartum doulas fulfill a specific role in the life of a new mother. Here’s what to expect with a postpartum doula contract, and a postpartum doula agreement template if you are just starting out.
If you are here, odds are you are well aware of what a postpartum doula is. You may even be one. But just in case, a postpartum doula helps a new mother in the first few days or weeks after giving birth. Postpartum doulas may be certified or may be someone with simply a passion to help new mothers throughout this vulnerable time. Here’s what to expect from a postpartum doula, their contract, and a template for the doula just starting out.
What to Expect from a Postpartum Doula
Postpartum doula services typically include helping with infant care, providing emotional support to the mother, attending to light housework, running errands, and helping with postpartum comfort measures. Postnatal doulas don’t usually help with major housecleaning tasks or give medical advice. Postpartum doulas care for you after the birth of your baby. Birth doulas help with birth plans, provide labor support, and usually immediate breastfeeding and postpartum care.
I highly recommend you hire a doula that has received training for the title. Organizations such as DONA are known for being trustworthy and reliable. This assures that your doula has received appropriate training for her role. It’s also fair to ask for references from people she has cared for in the past.
A list of services typically offered by a postpartum doula includes:
- Support of physical recovery after birth
- Breastfeeding support
- Emotional support
- Facilitates bonding
- Light housework
- Running errands
- Infant care while the mother rests
- Education on infant care
Postpartum Doula Contract and Agreement Template
Postpartum doulas must decide how they would offer their services. Some offer postpartum visits in four-hour increments. Some offer overnight options, and some offer 60-minute sessions. There are also virtual options for the mother who may have a quick question. Additional hours could be offered at a discount. Always take into account the hours of postpartum support you will offer with the additional costs you incur. It is also courteous not to undercut other postpartum doulas in your area. Keep the mentality of “we are on the same team.”
Postpartum Doula Contract and Agreement Template
Here are some things to think about when creating a contract specific to your services. Include what the client can expect from you, such as newborn care, physical support, help with the new baby, and informational support. Do you offer a backup doula in the event of illness, unpredictable scheduling conflicts, or unavailability? What happens with severe weather? Always include your privacy policy and a permission agreement for photos or videos if you plan to use them for advertising. Be sure to make clear any extra services that are available but not included in your contract.
Decide what your terms of payment are. Do you accept venmo or checks? Will you allow payment plans or require money before you provide services? In terms of the doula-client relationship, what will you allow? Will you let them friend you on social media? Do you give your personal phone number to them? What about email? It’s important to think through each of these scenarios before coming up with sample contracts.
This template is intended to be used as a sample. It doesn’t take the place of legal advice for your services. Please do not use my work without giving proper credit.
Have you seen How to Make DIY Padsicles? These can be healing and helpful to a newly postpartum mama. And here I share my favorite postpartum belly wraps, along with the pros and cons of using them.
Best wishes!
