That Time I Chose My Career After Googling ‘Weird Jobs for Moms’

I Googled “weird jobs for moms.” I scrolled past “Organic farm manager” and “Secret shopper.” I was feeling restless with my work as a reading specialist, and at the same time, nostalgic for the days when my three kids were all home and needed me in ways that they just didn’t anymore. Finally, there it was, staring back at me. Postpartum doula. Postpartum doula?

Provide non-judgmental support to moms in the first days and weeks after the birth of their babies? I can do that. Offer evidence-based information on infant care and breastfeeding? Love to! Nurture new moms with emotional support, nutritious food, and offer them the opportunity to nap while I tend to their baby? That would make me happy!

In essence, the job of a postpartum doula is to reduce stress and empower new mothers to be the best versions of themselves so they can establish a healthy relationship with their child from the start. Why hadn’t I known this even existed?! Sign me up!

During my intensive training, I was reminded how my Depression-era mother shamed me and stormed out of my house while I was breastfeeding my first born in the living room. She was angry and embarrassed that I would not retreat to my bedroom.

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