What exactly does a postnatal doula do?
As your postnatal doula in Canterbury and across East Kent, I'm here to nurture and support your whole family during those precious (and sometimes overwhelming!) early weeks. Think of me as your experienced friend who helps with everything from newborn care and feeding support to light housekeeping, meal prep, and most importantly, giving you the emotional support you need to feel confident as new parents. I'm not there to take over, but to help you find your own parenting rhythm while you rest and recover.

What's included in your postnatal doula support?
I offer practical and emotional support including:

• Newborn care so you can rest or shower

• Feeding support (breast and bottle)

• Light housekeeping - washing up, laundry, tidying

• Food planning, preparing nutritious meals and snacks

• Baby wearing guidance

• Recommendations for local Kent resources like baby groups and health services

• Most importantly - a listening ear and reassuring presence

When should I book a postnatal doula? Many Kent families book during pregnancy (around 32-36 weeks) to secure their preferred dates, but I also support families who reach out after baby arrives. The beauty of postnatal support is that it's never too late, whether you need help in the first week or at 6 weeks, or when your partner returns to work.

Do you support both breastfeeding and bottle feeding families? Absolutely! Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or doing a combination of both, I'm here to support your feeding journey without judgment. I can help with positioning, expressing milk, preparing bottles, and answer your feeding questions. While I'm not a lactation consultant, I have lots of practical experience, am a breastfeeding peer supporter and can signpost you to specialist support in Kent if needed.

Do you provide medical advice? No, I don't diagnose conditions or provide medical advice, that's what your midwife, health visitor, and GP are for! Instead, I provide evidence-based information, practical support, and help you know when to seek professional medical help. I work alongside your healthcare team, never instead of them.

What areas of Kent do you cover?
I'm based in Canterbury and happily support families across East Kent and the wider Kent area. I've worked with families from Margate to Maidstone, and I love the local connection I can recommend the best baby classes, mum groups, and family-friendly spots in your area!

How many hours of support do you offer? My most popular package is 4 sessions of 3 hours each (12 hours total) for £300, which gives you flexibility to spread support over your first few weeks. We can arrange these sessions around your needs, maybe longer sessions when your partner returns to work, or shorter visits when you just need a helping hand. I'm also available on WhatsApp between visits for those quick questions that pop up!

What if you're attending a birth or have to reschedule when I need you? I'm completely transparent about my birth client due dates that might overlap with your postnatal care. If I need to reschedule due to a birth or illness, your hours are simply moved to new mutually agreed times.
I also have trusted backup doulas in Kent who can step in if needed.

How much do you charge? My standard rate is £30/hour, but I do offer packages which you can see here

Ready to chat about postnatal support in Kent?
Drop me a message on WhatsApp (07880368104) or email hello@samthedoula.co.uk
I'd love to hear about your family and discuss how I can support you during those early weeks.