ORLANDO, Fla – More than 3.5 million babies will be born this year. That means 3 million new moms will be navigating the world of endless diaper changes, feedings and sleepless nights.
But there is help. Newborn specialists are becoming popular for new parents.
Little Cameron Edwards’ world is new to him and navigating a newborn’s world is all new to first-time mom, Jasmine Edwards.
“He was up 3:30 in the morning to like 5:30 in the morning. Like a cycle of changing swaddles. Because he like peed through it. Then he was hungry, he spit up on the swaddle, changed him again, almost got him to sleep. And then, oh, he pooped, had a blowout diaper. So we had to change the swaddle again,” Edwards said.
Realizing she couldn’t survive on two hours of sleep, Tamika Nelson came to her rescue. She’s been a postpartum doula for 30 years.
“I’m like a fairy. Whatever I see that needs to be done, I do it,” Nelson said.
Postpartum doulas offer emotional and practical support in the baby’s first months.
“I take care of baby, along with dishes that need to be washed, I do it. Clothes need to be folded up. I do it,” Nelson said.
Unlike doulas, newborn care specialists have 1,800 hours of hands-on experience and focus on the baby.
Night nurses are typically registered nurses and provide overnight care. They focus entirely on the baby’s health needs. They often will create a care plan for the parents.
But don’t confuse them with night nannies who may not have a nursing background. A night nanny usually follows the care plan directed by the parents.
Whichever you decide, it’s important to check credentials and references, choose wisely and sweet dreams are sure to follow.
Experts also suggest conducting interviews in person and being sure to contact at least three references.