INTENSIVE POSTPARTUM SUPPORT SERVICES (IPS)

COMPREHENSIVE IN-HOME POSTPARTUM DOULA SERVICES:

(during the initial postpartum period at home)

physical, emotional and educational support and assistance with maternal and newborn care
modelling safe & nurturing care skills to foster secure attachment and bonding techniques
demonstration on how to recognize and assess infant illness, concerns and how to access medical treatment
instruction on SIDS & shaken baby prevention, American Academy of Pediatrics newborn care & safety recommendations
breast/bottle feeding, education, support & counselling
perinatal mental health education with (PMAD) assessments for client and partner with referrals for intervention and treatment when indicated
provide light housekeeping & organization to help alleviate feeling overwhelmed while learning newborn needs
running light errands necessary for infant/maternal care
assistance with newborn care such as diapering, bathing, feeding and comforting
healthy maternal nutrition education with light meal preparation
linkage & connection to community family support programs & providers
contraception & spatial family planning education

Example of an IPS support schedule:

(schedules are based on the individual needs of the family)

Week one: 4 hrs day/4 days week

Week two: 3 hrs day/4 days week

Week three: 3 hrs day/3 days week

Week four: 3 hrs day/2 days week

Week five: 2 hrs day/2 days week

Week six: 2 hrs day/1 day week