I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Margaret McKinley Owens from Mothering by Mom, a Postpartum Doula of 8 years right here in the Twin Cities. Margaret is also a Certified Lactation Counselor and provides Placenta Encapsulation services. She specializes in multiples and children with special needs. She is also currently in school to become a Cranial Sacral Therapist.
Ann: Hi Margaret! What exactly is a postpartum doula?
Margret: A postpartum doula is an individual trained in the field of postpartum care, which is also referred to the 4th trimester. A postpartum doula supports the mother as she transitions in to motherhood and the partner as they have a new role to fill and an additional family member to care for and the baby, to help make the transition into the outside world smoother. We support the whole family and recognize that each family has its own unique needs. We do not provide medical care, but rather educational support, evidence based information, emotional support, and physical recovery time for the mother.
Ann: It seems there is a growing awareness of postpartum doula work. Is there a growing need? Why?
Margaret:There is an increased awareness regarding postpartum care. I support mothers, babies and families from all walks of life. I believe EVERY woman deserves postpartum support. It is not just for mothers who are experiencing postpartum depression, or mothers of multiples. I had postpartum support with my 3rd and 4th child and it helped with the recovery time, the bonding I was able to have and the emotional support I needed. Mothers who are having their first may need more educational support, while a mother with multiples would just need an extra pair of hands to help with navigation the overnight time or during the day after the partner returns to work.
Ann: Are there any situations for which you would more strongly recommend postpartum care over others?
Margaret: Mothers who have experienced depression or anxiety before pregnancy could benefit from additional support during the 4th trimester. A mother who has a toddler and a newborn would benefit, so the mother can spend time with each child in a way that benefits the whole family. A postpartum doula helps with sibling transition as well. Again, any and all mothers and babies can benefit from a postpartum doula's care.
Ann: How do postpartum doulas help with mothers who have a prenatal or postpartum anxiety and/or depression?
Margaret: It is very helpful to have someone in the home with you to bounce thoughts and ideas with and to help navigate some of the feelings and emotions that arise during the first precious weeks. It helps to not feel alone, or isolated. During the first few weeks you may be home bound a bit more that you would like and to have someone to support you and only you is an incredible value. A postpartum doula helps with household tasks and management of daily activities such as laundry, dishes and helps just keep life running smooth. So the mother can focus on caring for her baby and recouping from the birth.
Ann: What is the going rate in the Twin Cities for postpartum doula services? Is it covered by insurance?
Margaret: The typical rate for a postpartum doula in the Twin Cities is $25-$35/hour. However many postpartum doulas are willing to do a reduced rate for those who can't afford care. I have had some client receive 3rd party reimbursement for their postpartum care. However it is not completely covered at this time.
Ann: If someone wants a postpartum doula here in the Twin Cities, what would be the "next step"? Where would they look/go to find one?
Margaret: If you search for "Postpartum Doula Minneapolis", or Twin Cities, or go to the www.childbirthcollective.org, or www.dona.org
Ann: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Margaret: Being one woman helping and supporting another woman, baby and family. Feeling like I have truly provided a service that is so incredibly valuable.
Ann: Thank you so much Margaret!
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