Postpartum Doula Care     
      A postpartum Doula is a quiet presence in your home. My  postpartum care is for the whole family- 
  including the mother, the father, the new baby, siblings and other members.
    
     For pregnant mothers who are put on bed rest I can help by providing physical and emotional support.
  I can help with such duties as running errands, grocery shopping, doing meal preparation, light 
  housekeeping, and care of siblings.
 
     As an experienced mother I can give you advice about: breastfeeding, bathing, cord care, diapering,
  swaddling, soothing techniques and routine newborn care.

      I can keep your household running so you and your partner can bond with your baby. I can also care 
  for your new baby so youand your partner can rest.


  

                                                                        Lactation Support   
      A lactation consultant is a health care professional who is knowledgeable, skilled, & experienced in   
  lactation (breastfeeding). The lactation consultant’s primary focus is to provide education, assistance  
  and  support to breastfeeding women. Marisa has expensive training & knowledge as a Certified 
  Lactation Specialist. 

     Breastfeeding has proven benefits for mothers and infants. With breastfeeding comes a reduced risk of 
  asthma, childhood diabetes, ear infections, respiratory, and digestive problems for babies. Women who 
  breastfeed also receive health benefits, including reduced risk of osteoporosis as well as breast, ovarian, 
  and cervical cancers. In spite of all these benefits, mothers who experience problems in the first few days
  or weeks of breastfeeding may not receive accurate information or support to help them continue
  breastfeeding. A lactation consultant can provide that support and information, helping to manage a 
  large number of breastfeeding circumstances.

      A class is a great way to begin your breastfeeding experience. You will learn the benefits of
  breastfeeding, basic anatomy, proper positioning and latch-on, prevention and management of potential
  problems, and more. Breastfeeding your baby is one of the most important things you can do as a new  
  mother

    The following situations may increase the need for assistance by a lactation consultant:

• babies with latch-on problems or slow weight gain
• babies with physical or developmental problems
• premature infants or multiples
• mothers with flat, inverted, or sore nipples
• mothers with an insufficient milk supply
• mothers with specific medical conditions, including the use of medication
• working mothers
• weaning 

                                                        Postpartum Massage
      After birth your body is going through significant changes. This healing process includes: rapid
  reduction in the uterine size. Your chest becomes enlarged, sore and sensitive as the milk ducts go into
  production. Your may be very sore from an episiotomy. Your abdominal muscles are relaxed, flaccid
  and toneless. And if your rectus abdominus muscles detached you may feel weak when attempting to sit
  up.

Postpartum massage may help in these ways:
            * Re-establishing pelvis structural integrity
            * Support in healthy lactation
            * Reduces stress hormones
            * Facilitates the healing of bladder disorders, post-episiotomy soreness, 
                    and C-Sections
            * Relieves neck and shoulder pain from breastfeeding
            * Supports a healthly emotional state
            * Aids in maternal bonding