From Doulas to Docs: Building Your Professional Perinatal Support Team
In my previous blog, Perinatal Mental Health: Baby Blues and Beyond, we explored the importance of building a thoughtful and proactive support plan tailored to your unique needs during pregnancy and postpartum. A key part of that plan is establishing a strong professional support network, which can make all the difference as you navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that come with this significant life transition.
Finding your support network, though, is a deeply personal journey—what works for one person might not work for another. Much like in the new movie Babes, where the main character hilariously interviews potential doulas and settles on Dragona who she just knows is the perfect fit for her, you might need to take some time to find professionals who feel like the right match for you. Whether it’s a therapist, midwife, or lactation consultant, your goal is to build a team that gets you and can support you in the ways that matter most.
In this blog, we’re exploring the various professionals and resources that can be a part of your professional support team. Knowing who to turn to and when ensures you’re not navigating this journey alone. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, postpartum depression, figuring out breastfeeding, or running to the bathroom with every sneeze (if you know, you know), these professionals are here to provide specialized care and help you feel more supported along the way.
You might be wondering, “But Jami, do I really need all of these?” — and the answer is a resounding no! My goal is simply to offer options and resources, so you can explore what feels right for you.
Obstetrician (OB/GYN):
Your obstetrician is one of your “go-to’s” during pregnancy and postpartum, making sure both you and your baby are staying healthy and on track. They’re there for the basics—monitoring your baby’s development, keeping an eye on your health, and giving you the lowdown on everything from nutrition to getting ready for labor. But their role doesn’t stop there. Many OB/GYNs are also tuned in to your mental health, and they can help spot early signs of things like anxiety or depression, connecting you with mental health professionals who can offer additional support if needed.
Midwife:
If you decide to go with a midwife, you’re in for a more holistic and personalized approach to childbirth and postpartum care. Midwives are pros at balancing emotional support with medical expertise, and they can be a calming, empowering presence when things get real during labor and those early postpartum days. Another great perk? Many midwives offer home visits after your baby is born, which can be a huge help as you’re figuring out life with a newborn from the comfort of your couch (or wherever you can catch a minute of rest!)
Birth Doula:
A birth doula is your dedicated emotional and physical support system during labor and delivery, working alongside your medical team to ensure you feel empowered and informed throughout the birthing process. They’re skilled at offering comfort techniques, like breathing exercises, massage, and positioning to help ease the intensity of labor. Beyond the physical aspect, birth doulas provide reassurance and emotional support for both you and your partner, creating a calm and nurturing environment when things get tough. With a birth doula by your side, you’ll have an advocate dedicated to making sure your voice is heard and your birth plan is respected. If you choose to deliver in a hospital, check with your OB/GYN! Your birth doula may be able to come in with you.
Did you know that some birth doulas are also trained to provide support after the baby arrives? While birth doulas focus on the labor and delivery process, many extend their care into the postpartum period, helping new parents navigate those early weeks. Whether you have the same doula or bring in a dedicated postpartum doula, this type of support can make a world of difference as you settle into life with your newborn.
Postpartum Doula:
A postpartum doula is like your personal cheerleader after the birth of your little one, offering non-medical support to help you adjust to life with a newborn. Their focus is on the emotional and practical side of things, which is a big deal when you’re trying to find your footing. Doulas can assist with infant care, offer breastfeeding tips, and share soothing techniques to help calm your baby (and maybe even you!). But perhaps the most valuable thing they provide is emotional support for all caregivers involved, helping to ease that feeling of isolation and overwhelm that can creep in during the postpartum period. With a postpartum doula by your side, you’ll feel less alone on this incredible—and sometimes chaotic—journey.
DONA International: One of the largest organizations certifying doulas worldwide, with a directory to find certified doulas near you.
Doula Trainings International: Another large doula-certifying organization with a provider directory.
Lactation Consultant:
For breastfeeding parents, lactation consultants can be a game-changer in your support team. Let’s be real—breastfeeding challenges are super common and can lead to feelings of frustration and stress that nobody signed up for. That’s where lactation consultants come in. They offer expert advice on everything from positioning and latch techniques to milk production, helping to lighten the load and ease some of those pressures that often pop up during your breastfeeding journey. Most importantly, they are focused on working with your personal goals while balancing what’s best for both you and your baby. With their support, you’ll feel more confident and empowered to navigate this important part of parenthood.
La Leche League USA: A nationwide organization offering breastfeeding support, both in-person and virtually.
Therapist or Counselor:
Mental health is often one of the most overlooked aspects of the perinatal experience, but it’s absolutely critical. Did you know that about 1 in 5 new parents experience a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), and even more face the “baby blues”? That’s where a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health can become an essential part of your support system.
Whether you’re navigating the emotional ups and downs of postpartum life or dealing with more serious challenges, a qualified mental health professional can offer coping strategies and interventions tailored just for you.
Therapy also creates a safe space to dive into the complex feelings that often come with this huge life change, like shifts in identity, evolving relationship dynamics, and the new responsibilities of parenthood. If you’re seeking a therapist, consider looking for someone with a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) to ensure you’re getting specialized support that understands the unique challenges of this journey. For more tips on how to choose a therapist for yourself or your child, check out this blog by Ben Kinsey!
Postpartum Support International (PSI): Offers a directory of therapists and support groups specializing in perinatal mental health.
Kristi’s List: A provider directory of therapists who specialize in perinatal mental health, provided by Nurtured ATX.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist:
Pregnancy and childbirth can take a toll on your body, especially when it comes to the pelvic floor. Many new parents deal with issues like incontinence, pain, or discomfort during intercourse after childbirth, which can feel pretty overwhelming. That’s where a pelvic floor physical therapist steps in.
These specialists are trained to treat these conditions, offering targeted exercises and rehabilitation techniques designed to promote healing and strengthen those pelvic floor muscles. Addressing these physical concerns can also work wonders for your mental health—feeling strong and healthy in your body often leads to improved emotional well-being. So, don’t hesitate to seek out this kind of support; it can make a world of difference!
Primary Care Physician (PCP):
While your OB/GYN or midwife usually takes center stage during pregnancy and postpartum, your primary care physician is also a key player in your ongoing care. They provide continuity beyond those early weeks and months, helping to manage any long-term health concerns that may pop up.
Plus, they can keep an eye on any mental health issues that linger, making sure you’re not navigating those challenges alone. If needed, they can also refer you to specialized care, ensuring you have the support you deserve as you continue your journey into parenthood.
Support Groups and Peer Networks:
While professionals bring invaluable expertise to the table, don’t underestimate the power of peer support! Joining a support group for new parents can be a game-changer, allowing you to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges. These groups offer a space for honest conversations, emotional validation, and the sharing of practical tips and resources that can make a real difference.
Some groups are led by professionals, while others are peer-driven, but either way, the sense of community you’ll find can help lessen those feelings of isolation. If you’re interested, check out our group page for more information on local options and online resources!
Postpartum Support International (PSI): Offers free virtual support groups for postpartum depression, anxiety, and related conditions.
Nutritionist:
Proper nutrition is essential for both physical and emotional recovery during the postpartum period. A nutritionist or dietitian can be your ally in making sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need, especially if you’re breastfeeding or dealing with postpartum fatigue. They can offer meal planning tips that simplify the process of maintaining a balanced diet while you’re juggling the demands of a newborn. With their guidance, you can nourish yourself in ways that support your health and well-being during this busy time!
Texas WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program): Offers nutritional support and counseling to eligible new mothers.
Social Workers:
Social workers are like the friendly neighborhood superheroes of the support world. They can connect families with essential resources, such as financial assistance, housing support, and mental health services. If you find yourself in need of a little extra help, a social worker can navigate the system with you, making sure you have access to the programs and services that suit your unique situation. Their advocacy can help lift some of the burdens that often come with parenting, especially during challenging times.
• Any Baby Can: This organization provides comprehensive support services for moms and families, addressing a wide range of needs to help them thrive.
Nonprofit Organizations:
Don’t underestimate the power of nonprofit organizations! Many of them are dedicated to supporting low-income families with a range of services. From food banks that ensure you have meals on the table to parenting classes that empower you with skills and confidence, these organizations can provide crucial assistance when you need it most. Seeking out local nonprofits can help you find a community that’s ready to support you on your parenting journey.
• Austin Diaper Bank: This organization provides diapers and other basic needs to families in the Austin area, helping to alleviate some financial stress.
• The SAFE Alliance: This nonprofit offers services for families dealing with domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse, including counseling and support.
• Foundation Communities: This organization provides affordable housing and support services, while also assisting individuals in navigating the healthcare marketplace.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to ask for help! Navigating the physical and emotional ups and downs of pregnancy and postpartum is no small task—it’s like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle (with a baby on your hip!). Building a diverse support network can give you the care, validation, and resources you need along the way.
If you missed my previous blog, Perinatal Mental Health: Baby Blues and Beyond, be sure to check it out for more tips on taking care of your mental well-being during this time. Together, these insights can help you create a support plan that empowers you as you transition into parenthood—unicycle not included.
Additional Blogs:
From Playroom to Parenthood: Reflections for New Caregivers by Dakota Becker
From the Bookshelf of a Play Therapist and New Mom by Colleen Turner
Interested in booking a session with Jami?
WRITTEN BY Jami Lewis, LPC Associate, NCC
The choice to begin therapy takes courage and vulnerability. I’m so glad you’ve found your way here! I'm Jami Lewis, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), under the supervision of Jaclyn N Sepp, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S™, NCC, RYT200, and Leah Gilbert, MEd, LPC-S, NCC. I earned my Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling from Texas State University, which is known for its excellence in training counselors. I also hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and am a Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT™) and Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) candidate.
