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16 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • October 2020 Ask the Expert a sk t h e e x p e rt Parents have nine months to prepare for the transformational experience of bringing home a new baby, but those first few weeks home with baby can be chal- lenging, even for experienced parents. Especially at a time when social distancing is encouraged, grandparents may want to keep their distance and support groups and classes aren't meeting, new mothers can feel isolated and overwhelmed. A Mother's Perspective Doula Services has been empowering women during the prenatal, birth and postpartum phases of life for YEARS. Many families are not aware that bringing on a postpartum doula is an option that can allow them to get more sleep, get help with some of the most frustrating challenges new- borns present and truly enjoy those first few snuggly weeks with baby. As our October Expert, A Mother's Perspective's Alyse O'Steen, a certified postpartum doula, answers questions about how she helps women and families navigate life with a newborn. Q: What is a postpartum doula? ALYSE O'STEEN: It's a person who is available to help guide families through this new and beautiful, yet chal- lenging, chapter in their lives. Whether it's bringing home a first-time baby or expanding their family, a doula is there to assist with everything from sleep training to navigating constipation and reflux issues to setting up the stroller for that first walk with baby. INTERVIEWED BY EMILY FREEHLING Alyse O'Steen, certified postpartum doula. A Helping Hand for the Newborn Days A Helping Hand for the Newborn Days