Should My Postpartum Doula Start Services as Soon as I Come Home?

The short answer? Yes. The moment you walk through your front door with your newborn is one of the most powerful—and overwhelming—transitions of your life. You're no longer in the protected space of the hospital or birth center. Now, you're home. The visitors may have left. The adrenaline has worn off. And suddenly, it's just you, your baby, and the quiet (or crying) of a brand-new reality. This is exactly when your postpartum doula should step in. At Doulagy, we believe the first 24–72 hours at home are critical. This is when your body is recovering, your milk is coming in, your emotions are raw, and your need for support is greatest. Having your doula arrive right away means you're not alone in those tender, disorienting moments. I remember one mom who texted me the minute she got home: "I'm scared. He won't latch. I don't know what I'm doing." I was there within the hour. We sat together, prayed, adjusted her hold, and I made her a warm meal while she rested. By evening, she whispered, "I think I can do this." That's the power of timely support. Your doula can help with: Unpacking and organizing baby items Preparing your first postpartum meal Assisting with newborn care so you can shower or nap Supporting breastfeeding or bottle feeding Helping you process your birth experience Creating a calm, sacred space for bonding Delaying doula care means missing the window when you need it most. Just like you wouldn't wait three days to start healing after surgery, you shouldn't wait to begin your postpartum recovery. So yes—your doula should be ready to serve you the day you come home. That's when the fourth trimester truly begins. And that's when you deserve to be nurtured, guided, and loved. Because coming home isn't the end of birth. It's the beginning of motherhood.