Question 1

What does a postpartum doula do?

Accepted Answer

A postpartum doula helps with newborn care basics like diapering, bathing, and soothing techniques. They support breastfeeding or bottle feeding, prepare nourishing meals, do light housekeeping, and care for older siblings. Most importantly, they provide emotional support and reassurance during the vulnerable early weeks after birth.

Question 2

How much does a postpartum doula cost in Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum doula rates in Los Angeles typically range from $35 to $65 per hour, with overnight support often priced at flat rates between $300 and $500 per night. Many families in Manhattan Beach, Torrance, and the South Bay invest in packages of 20 to 40 hours spread across several weeks.

Question 3

What is the fourth trimester?

Accepted Answer

The fourth trimester is the 12-week period immediately after birth when both baby and mother undergo profound physical and emotional transitions. During this time, newborns adjust to life outside the womb while mothers recover from childbirth and establish feeding routines.

Question 4

What's the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression?

Accepted Answer

Baby blues affect up to 80% of new mothers and typically resolve by two weeks postpartum with mood swings and tearfulness. Postpartum depression (PPD) is more severe and persistent, lasting beyond two weeks with symptoms like hopelessness, inability to care for yourself or baby, and difficulty sleeping even when baby sleeps.

Question 5

When should I see a lactation consultant?

Accepted Answer

See an IBCLC lactation consultant if you're experiencing pain during feeding, baby isn't gaining weight adequately, you have concerns about milk supply, baby has difficulty latching, you're returning to work and need pumping guidance, or you're dealing with recurrent plugged ducts.

Question 6

What are the benefits of infant massage?

Accepted Answer

Research shows infant massage can improve sleep quality and duration, reduce colic and gas symptoms, support healthy weight gain in preterm infants, lower stress hormones in both baby and parent, enhance bonding and attachment, and help parents feel more confident reading their baby's cues.

Question 7

Does Reiki help with fertility?

Accepted Answer

While Reiki isn't a medical treatment for infertility, many women find it helpful as a complementary practice. Research shows that stress can negatively impact fertility, and Reiki is deeply relaxing. By reducing anxiety and promoting emotional balance, Reiki may support your body's natural fertility processes.

Question 8

How long does postpartum recovery really take?

Accepted Answer

While the standard six-week checkup suggests recovery is complete by then, the truth is more nuanced. Uterine healing takes about six weeks. Cesarean incision healing takes six to eight weeks minimum. Pelvic floor recovery can take several months. Many women report feeling like themselves again somewhere between nine and twelve months postpartum.

Question 9

What are the signs of postpartum anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Signs of postpartum anxiety include constant worry that something bad will happen to baby, racing thoughts you can't turn off, difficulty sleeping even when baby sleeps, physical symptoms like racing heart or nausea, irritability, avoiding situations due to fear, and checking on baby excessively.

Question 10

How do I know if I have birth trauma?

Accepted Answer

Signs of birth trauma include intrusive memories or flashbacks of the birth, nightmares, avoiding talking about the birth, feeling emotionally numb, startling easily, difficulty bonding with baby, anxiety about future pregnancies, and persistent anger about what happened. If your birth experience is still bothering you weeks later, that's worth addressing.

Maternal Wellness Glossary

Postpartum & Doula Support

Postpartum Doula

Fourth Trimester

Overnight Doula Support

Postpartum Recovery

Maternal Wellness & OT

Maternal Occupational Therapy

Sensory Processing

Fertility & Energy Healing

Fertility Reiki

Energy Healing

Infant Care & Development

Infant Massage

Safe Sleep

Perinatal Mental Health

Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Postpartum Anxiety (PPA)

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)

Birth Trauma

Breastfeeding & Feeding

IBCLC (Lactation Consultant)

Breastfeeding Latch

Have More Questions?

	Los Angeles & Surrounding
	hello@audreysnest.com
	(310) 876-2045
	By Appointment Only
	Responds within 24 hours