Embarking on motherhood can be a rollercoaster of emotions. It can be deeply joyful and incredibly overwhelming—sometimes all at once. One moment you may feel full of love and purpose, and the next, totally unsure of who you are now. That mix of emotions is normal.

If you’ve felt lost in your role as a mother or like your identity is slipping through your fingers, you are not alone. This is called identity loss, and it’s one of the most common and least-talked-about parts of becoming a parent.

Let’s talk about what it is, why it happens, and how to begin finding yourself again, without guilt.

Having support during the postpartum period isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. When you're held, cared for, and supported in the right ways, you’re more likely to feel calm, connected, and confident as you adjust to life with a new baby. The beautiful thing is: there are so many options for support, and the key is finding the one that meets your needs. Understanding the different roles—whether it’s a postpartum doula, a newborn care specialist, or a mother’s helper—not only helps you ask the right questions when interviewing, but also ensures you feel satisfied with the kind of care you receive. When you know who you’re hiring and what to expect, your postpartum experience can feel a lot more aligned, intentional, and nurturing.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common postpartum support roles so you can decide what feels right for your family, whether you’re looking for help during the day, overnight, or both.

Pregnancy involves many decisions, like where to give birth, how to prepare, and who you want by your side. One of the most common questions I hear as a doula and educator is, “What’s the difference between a doula and a midwife?” While doulas are becoming more mainstream, there is still some confusion about our role during pregnancy and delivery and how it differs from all of the other support available.

Let’s break it down simply so you can feel more confident in building a support team that fits your birth vision.

One of the most common things I hear from potential clients is:
“I hope it’s not too early to reach out...”
Or just as often:
“I hope it’s not too late!”

Let me reassure you right now — it is never too early to hire a doula. In fact, hiring a doula earlier in your pregnancy opens up so many more opportunities for connection, preparation, peace of mind, and support.

If you are pregnant, you have probably been googling every topic under the sun! The more you search, the more questions you may have. You’ll learn things you didn't even know you needed to know – like the fact that some people KEEP their placenta after birth! Now, if you’re not familiar with this and are wondering, “Why on earth would someone keep their placenta???” this post is for you! We’ll go over what the placenta is, why some people keep it, and what you can do with it. Keep reading to see if this is something you would like to do!

Becoming a parent can bring on a whirlwind of changes…

While it is very rewarding, parenthood can also be challenging. Many times we can feel as if we are just trying to make it through the day and survive but what if we want to thrive? If your goal is to thrive in parenthood and not just survive, here are some tips to help you achieve that:

Welcoming a new baby into your life is a joyful and transformative experience. Still, it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially if you do not have a support system and plan in place. During the postpartum period, when both physical and emotional adjustments are at their peak, having support can make a world of difference for your overall recovery. This is where a postpartum doula comes in! Let’s discuss what a postpartum doula is, what one does, and why you might want to consider having one by your side during this crucial time.

Let's kick things off by making one thing clear: a cesarean birth is STILL A BIRTH!

None of that “C-sections aren’t natural” or “it’s not a real birth” b.s. here, thanks!

While the hope for many is to have a vaginal delivery, cesareans are a common surgical procedure that can help bring baby earthside when it is unsafe to do so otherwise. Sometimes a cesarean birth (also known as a C-section) is planned ahead of time for different medical reasons or it can be emergent after a tried vaginal delivery is deemed too risky for mother or baby to continue. Whatever the reason may be, a doula can still provide support if you find yourself preparing for a cesarean.

Thinking about pain relief options for labor?

Many people choose to have an epidural while laboring. It is a decision that can provide pain relief, much-needed rest, and comfort. If you think you may opt for an epidural, you may be wondering if a doula is right for you. While the assumption is that doulas are only present in unmedicated births or home births, doulas can also help in hospital settings and during medicated births! If you had planned on going the medication-free route and already have a doula, you may think you can’t change your mind. News flash! Your doula works for you and should support you– judgment-free – no matter your choices!

Sometimes complications arise and things don’t go as planned…

Instead of spiraling out of control, let's make a new plan together! Whether you planned to have a doula as part of your birth team and are now concerned that with an induction, you won't be able to or if you didn't even consider having a doula by your side and are now worried about all of the unknowns, this article is for you!