As first-time parents without family nearby, we decided to hire Kaylen for postpartum doula services. We searched for someone education-focused that could "teach us to be independent." Kaylen stood out through her full spectrum certification, background in developmental psychology, and experience working internationally and multiculturally. At our first call, she immediately imbued a sense of warmth and calmness that we would welcome into our home during an intimate and vulnerable phase.
At each visit, Kaylen would checkin on mom's recovery and bring care and attention to areas the OB doesn't focus on (i.e. swollen feet, itchy skin, uterine health and expelling lochia). She then turned attention to our greatest concerns at the moment, including efficient breastfeeding and bottle feeding techniques, pumping guidance, and nipple care. She taught us how to use our gear properly (sanitizing, sizing flanges, sizing baby carriers, tying solly wraps) and walked us through new skills (giving baths, soothing). It's incredibly confidence boosting having an expert demonstrate each new skill in context of our home, so we can replicate it on our own.
During later visits, Kaylen pivoted to postpartum meal prep. The food was delicious, and as she cooked I would give her general updates and casually ask her opinion on things I'm considering for the future, such as travel logistics and childcare options. For any childrearing questions with multiple schools of thought, Kaylen would explain the pros/cons of each approach in a non-judgemental way, so we could make educated decisions for ourselves.
We had a very smooth fourth trimester and hit our stride quickly, lucky to sidestep many of the painful/anxious moments I hear from other moms. I credit much of this to Kaylen's support!
-Shalin Pei
June 29, 2023
Roots of Love Project
Birth Fee: $2850 to $3000
Postpartum Rate: $60 to $65