When Cherise became a postpartum doula, her heart was set on helping new mothers during one of the most vulnerable and transformative times of their lives.
“I was really wanting to help moms in the postpartum phase, especially those who may have experienced birth trauma or harder labors… and those who didn’t have a lot of support,” she says.
In places like Waco, where many families move from other areas and don’t have relatives nearby, this kind of care can make a huge difference.
Mothering the Mother
Postpartum doulas aren’t just baby experts, they’re there for the whole family. Cherise explains:
“One of the things in our training… is that we mother the mother—or re-mother the mother. Some moms need re-mothering… and I get to come in and do that.”
Her support can look different for each family. For some, it means holding the baby so a mom can shower or nap. For others, it’s washing dishes, preparing a snack, or simply sitting and listening.
“I’m not just coming in and helping with things. I’m also there to be relational support, emotional support, physical support, and then [provide] resources.”
Healing and Emotional Support
Cherise knows that birth, no matter how smooth, can leave emotional imprints.
“Even some of the most amazing births… there could be an unexpected moment. Just being able to talk about that… I’m someone who’s going to encourage them and affirm them.”
She also keeps a watchful eye on her clients’ mental health, using tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and gentle conversations to spot early signs of postpartum depression or anxiety.
“I let my clients know: I’m going to be looking for different signs. Make sure you’re transitioning out of baby blues and not into anything else.”
A Calmer Transition to Parenthood
For Cherise, the goal is simple: make those first weeks easier, calmer, and more supported through breastfeeding support, helping out with chores, watching the baby, etc.
“Each client is different… For some, I walk in and hold the baby so mom can shower. For others, I barely hold the baby at all—I’m doing dishes or playing with other kids.”
“A postpartum doula gives peace of mind and a calmer, easier transition from birth into the postpartum period.”
It Takes a Village
Cherise passionately believes that postpartum care should be the norm, not the exception.
“It takes a village to raise children, but it also takes a village to come around and take care of the mother… making sure you’ve had water, something to eat, and time for self-care.”
And she’s clear about her advice to anyone wondering if this kind of help is worth it:
“A hundred percent—everybody needs a birth doula and a postpartum doula… Just say yes and call.”
Your Next Step
The Community Doulas of Waco connect local low-income families with trained birth and postpartum doulas like Cherise at no cost. If you or someone you know is between 27-34 weeks pregnant, remember: you don’t have to do this alone.
Say yes to the support you deserve. Contact the Community Doulas of Waco today at (254) 307- 0377