Find a Postpartum Doula in Grand Rapids, MI

Doulas on Meela are certified, client-recommended, and vetted by licensed medical practitioners. Find one near you.

Create a free account, and we'll bring top doulas to you.

Get started

1,000+ childbirth experts

Client recommended, 97% 5-star reviews

Vetted by licensed medical practitioners

Verified client testimonials

Why Use Meela to Hire Your Postpartum Doula?

Meela is the trusted place for parents to find top-rated postpartum doulas, connecting over 1,700 parents with vetted doulas each month. Reach out to postpartum doulas directly, or answer a few questions and let us bring you the best available options near you. All for free, no strings attached.

Certified, Expert-Vetted Postpartum Doulas Near You

Our postpartum doulas are the best of the best and hold the highest standards of evidence-based, inclusive, and compassionate care. Each verified doula on Meela is vetted by a licensed medical professional and comes with multiple client recommendations, active certifications, and has extensive training and experience in perinatal care.

Found 7 Pros in Grand Rapids, MI, USA | Postpartum doula support
EXPERIENCE
0 50
Families served
0 3500
Birth fee
$0 $7500
HOURLY RATE
$0 $500
img img

Kristin Revere

Grand Rapids, MI

4 reviews • 200 families supported • 11 years experience

4 reviews • 200 families supported • 11 years experience

Gold Coast Doulas is the premier birth and postpartum doula agency in Grand Rapids and the Lakeshore communities. The firm was established in 2015 and is a certified B Corporation. We are fully insured and our team is certified.

Care philosophy

Judgment-free support from conception through the first year. Background checked, Certified, Insured.

Areas served

  • Grand Rapids, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon,
  • Rockford, Ada, East Grand Rapids, Zeeland, Cascade
  • Ludington, Pentwater, Saugatuck, Fremont, Cadillac

Reviews

  • Kristin
    October 11, 2023 at 7:44 pm

    Thanks, Mary. I loved working with you.

img img

Rebekah Franklin

Grand Rapids, MI

15 reviews • 50 families supported • 5 years experience

15 reviews • 50 families supported • 5 years experience

Long before I discovered my passion for birth work I had a desire to help others and graduated college with a degree in Psychology. I spent years working as a nursing assistant in a psychiatric hospital where I received extensive trainings on trauma-informed care and crisis interventions. I then moved on to working in Hospice where I helped patients and families navigate end of life decisions and comfort care. So when did I decide to become a doula? Well, when my doula changed my birthing experience for the better - I knew I wanted to do the the same for others. I started studying all things labor and birth in 2016 and absolutely LOVE sharing my gifts and professional skill sets in this space. As an evidence-based professional I make sure to bring you the most up-to-date research to help guide and support your best birth! There's one more thing you should know about me; I'm also a certified Pilates Instructor! Which means, I bring functional anatomy and pelvic floor expertise to your birthing experience. Yes! You MUST move your body and your pelvis when you're laboring your baby. With over a decade of teaching experience, I will help you understand how movement, breath, and pelvic floor muscles contribute to the outcomes of your labor and birth. Together we prepare, practice, and persist!

Care philosophy

-I believe in keeping my clients informed and empowered every step of the way. -I believe practice makes preparation for labor and birth -I believe birth is an exciting and normal, physiological process. -I believe your hard work will pay off to get you the birth you want. -Birth is not a medical emergency and should not be treated as such. Consultations are FREE, let’s chat!

Areas served

  • Grand Rapids and surrounding communities

Reviews

  • Courtney
    March 26, 2023 at 2:51 am | Client review

    Rebekah is an amazing doula and person! I knew I wanted a doula for my first born, and the stars aligned when we found her. We had no idea about the birthing process, and it was through her pre-birth classes and mentorship, we felt ready when the time came. What my husband and I did not expect, was that we’d be in labor 3 weeks early. Rebekah was there with us for it all. I wanted a natural birth, so I was in active labor for 72 hours trying everything I could to make that happen, and Rebekah was by my side coaching and supporting both my husband and I the whole time. My birthplan had many changes along the way as my body had other plans, so a lot of decisions were constantly needed to make for the next steps. Rebekah was the calm for us during these times, and her wisdom, kindness, and expertise helped guide us along the way. Our son ended up being born via C-Section, and Rebekah changed roles for a bit to be our photographer during the surgery. We now have the most beautiful birth photos we never would have had without her. As soon as our son was born and we were in the recovery room, Rebekah jumped back into her role of Doula, and helped me (a very exhausted new mama) breast feed for the first time while making those moments so powerful and beautiful. It’s a big decision to choose who you want to be with you as your child enters the world, and we guarantee you will not regret having Rebekah be that person for you!!

$ flexible
img

Alaina Bierema

Grand Rapids, MI

0 reviews • 30 families supported • 2 years experience

0 reviews • 30 families supported • 2 years experience

I love and celebrate all things birth! I'm passionate about researching and gaining education on evidence based information & practices for pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. I am a Certified Gentlebirth Educator, a BEST Certified Doula, a StillBirthday Certified Doula, as well as a Community Breastfeeding Educator. I am also trained through DONA! ​

Care philosophy

I firmly believe in the power of knowledge. The more you know about your body and birth, the less you have to fear. With this, you are empowered through education, knowledge, and preparation. I am also passionate about your body! I use my endless love and knowledge of Human Anatomy and Physiology to help you prepare and support your body for birth, no matter what kind of birth you are planning!

Areas served

  • Grand Rapids
  • West Michigan
img img

Jillian Putman

Hudsonville, MI

3 reviews • 3 families supported • 1 years experience

3 reviews • 3 families supported • 1 years experience

I became a Doula because I find the utmost joy in uplifting others. The experience you have with birth and that crucial time after are imprinted on you for the rest of your life. I want you to look back at your story with excitement and satisfaction knowing you were empowered to make informed decisions and say "heck yes! I did this!" From the time of preparing your birth plan to labor, delivery, and continuing on through The 4th Trimester, I am professionally trained and ready to walk by your side, not in front of you, but along with you. Guiding and helping you to the point where you feel complete confidence and emotional stability in this new adventure is my goal as your Doula. I provide support via email, text and phone, prenatal visits, attendance at your birth, postpartum visits and/or continuing care of your family unit in your home. I want to see it through until you are comfortable in the beautiful role you have as a parent and caregiver to a new bundle of joy!

Care philosophy

Everyone deserves support and care that comes from a non-judgmental place of love and true desire to uplift others in this beautiful but difficult time of life. I chose to become a Doula for just that reason! Becoming a parent is a process that is challenging and rewarding. Navigate through it with an advocate by your side. I am here to help fulfil the birth and postpartum experience you desire.

Areas served

  • Kent and Ottawa Counties, Mi

Reviews

  • Shelbi
    June 7, 2022 at 4:45 am | Client review

    Jillian has the kindest heart and so much love to share. She has been my strength in times of need. She makes difficult things seem less scary and simple. She can bring calm to any situation.
    When I was a new mom, she traveled a great distance to help me with my new baby. I was so glad she was there because she is a natural with newborns. She made this post-partum time one of the best times of my life with so many happy memories.

img

Jessi Heins

Holland, MI

0 reviews • 22 families supported • 3 years experience

0 reviews • 22 families supported • 3 years experience

I want to support you and your support person or birthing partner in the decisions that you decide to make. No matter what. I maintain an unbiased person in the room while also providing your evidence based information. I also work with you to help keep labor moving or encourage you to rest when you need it.

Care philosophy

I strive to care for families as they transition into a family with new members. My goal is to support you in the birth that you desire. I provide emotional, physical and education support through pregnancy and delivery.

Areas served

  • Holland
  • muskegon
  • Grand Rapids
$ flexible
img img

Carrie Stephens

Grand Rapids, MI

1 reviews • 200 families supported • 5 years experience

1 reviews • 200 families supported • 5 years experience

I believe that a birth experience should be as special and unique as each one of my clients. Certified as a DONA birth/postpartum doula and advanced trained doula & educator in VBaC births it's my goal that my clients are thoroughly educated and supported to birth THEIR way without fear or prejudice. It's truly an honor to be selected to walk with you on your journey to parenthood, to watch you grown in confidence and to be a part of such a special time in your life. My intro to motherhood was both challenging and beautiful. All those moments set me on a path and passion for improved birth & postpartum support and maternal mental health. I’m an extroverted introvert, with a love for nature, days at the lake, music, good conversation and iced coffee. When I'm not at a birth, my hands and heart are full with my three kiddos, dog and husband. I'm proud and excited to say that I've been voted a Top Provider in GRKids Best Of GR 2019 - 2022 and serve as Director for the nonprofit group The Maternal Wellness Program!

Care philosophy

I believe that pregnant individuals and their partners deserve to be supported, nurtured, and educated throughout pregnancy, labor and the postpartum period. My role as your doula is to compliment your birth team, to make sure you're knowledgeable about your birth options, rights and that you are confidently prepared (physically & mentally) to meet the challenges of labor and postpartum.

Areas served

  • Holland, MI
  • Grand Haven, MI
  • Muskegon, MI
  • Kent, Montcalm, Ionia, Ottawa, Allegan Counties
  • Grand Rapids, MI
  • Hastings, MI
  • Mount Pleasant, MI
  • Ada, MI
  • Zeeland, MI
  • Hudsonville, MI
  • Wyoming, MI
  • Rockford, MI
  • Grandville, MI
  • Caledonia, MI
  • Wayland, MI
  • Middleville, MI

Reviews

  • Tracey
    July 25, 2022 at 11:02 am | Client review

    I truly cannot imagine giving birth without Carrie by my side, as my doula. Carrie met with me during my pregnancy, asking thoughtful questions to help me decide on my birth plan preferences and preparing me for what to expect. During labor, Carrie provided reassurance as well as emotional and physical support. I appreciated her help in making informed decisions. Her care for me and my newborn son was invaluable, and I am so grateful.

img

Allison Brito

Grand Rapids, MI

0 reviews • 30 families supported • 5 years experience

0 reviews • 30 families supported • 5 years experience

I have supported women --- birthing in the hospital as well as at home --- with and without medications --- with plenty of family and partner support, as well as with very little --- vaginal births, including after previous cesareans --- cesarean births I have been supporting families through pregnancy, birth and postpartum for 5 years, but birth (and all things related) has been a passion of mine for much longer, as my sister is a midwife. During my two distinct labors I have experienced both challenges (back labor, anyone?!) and joys (a powerful water birth). I have a background in education and love to share knowledge and resources that can inform your choices. I am also bilingual in Spanish and English. I specialize in comfort measures, informational support, and using affirmations and other verbal measures to release fear and build confidence. In my spare time I love to perform in community theatre, travel to see family, and exercise the “spiritual gift of thrifting” that I inherited from my mother. Global impact is important to me, therefore: --- I donate a percentage of my proceeds to local organizations that fight human trafficking and protect vulnerable women and children. --- I purchase my materials (both educational and practical) from other small businesses and earth-friendly sources as much as possible.

Care philosophy

As a doula, I offer you emotional, educational, and physical support during the birthing year. I love to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals so that you can feel satisfied with and empowered by your birth experience. I can provide references upon request!

Areas served

  • Within 30 miles of Grand Rapids, MI

Postpartum Doula Services: FAQs

For most parents, the transition into early parenthood is hard. Postpartum doulas in Grand Rapids, MI offer all sorts of practical, physical, informational and emotional support to new parents. Postpartum doulas in Grand Rapids, MI offer a wide range of after-birth support services, including:

  1. Caring for and assisting in the recovery of the birthing parent
  2. Providing breastfeeding and lactation support
  3. Offering advice for baby soothing, diapering and bathing
  4. Parent-baby bonding
  5. Caring for older siblings
  6. Light housework
  7. Night nannying or sleep relief services

Some parents require additional physical and emotional support due to their specific situation, lack of family support, or their particular lifestyle. A postpartum doula positively affects the entire family, as many postpartum doulas are involved in sibling care, housework chores, and educating clients on childcare information/techniques.

To find a postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI, most parents recommend creating a job post on Meela and having uniquely qualified postpartum doulas near you (in your budget) reach out to you through the Meela app.

You can interview and chat with as many postpartum doulas as you wish and hire a postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI with confidence. It is completely free to create a job post on Meela and find a postpartum doula. There are no commitments to hire any of the qualified and expert vetted postpartum doulas Meela brings you.

Here’s how it works in 3 easy steps:

  1. Post a job for free: Answer some questions and receive responses from top-rated postpartum doulas near you. It takes less than 30 seconds to post your job.
  2. Get your list of postpartum doulas: In a few hours, you will have a collection of postpartum doulas near you who are qualified to meet your needs. You can compare pricing, experience, and read reviews. You can chat with each postpartum doula to learn more about them.
  3. Hire a postpartum doula with confidence: Schedule virtual or in-person interviews with your top postpartum doula choices. Hire your top postpartum doula and start getting the care you deserve.

To find a postpartum doula, you can also browse the available postpartum doulas near you in Grand Rapids, MI and read reviews, compare pricing, experience and fit. Send the postpartum doulas you are interested in a message, introducing yourself and setting up an interview. We recommend reaching out to and interviewing at least three postpartum doulas before hiring a postpartum doula near you. After interviewing, hire the most qualified postpartum doula near you and start getting the care you deserve.

While the cost of a postpartum doula can vary based on experience and the services offered, you can expect the average cost of a postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI to be $34 per hour, which is the average cost of a postpartum doula in the state of Michigan. The cost of a postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI can range from $28 to $40 per hour. These costs are based on a representative group of 48 postpartum doulas surveyed by Meela across the state of Michigan. The average cost of a postpartum doula in Michigan is lower than the U.S. national average cost of a doula, which is $37 per hour.

When hiring a postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI, you and your postpartum doula will discuss and agree upon a fee structure, and your doula will send you itemized invoices through Meela, which you can pay securely through the app.

A postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI is meant to help the entire family and their role is not just limited to the birthing parent and newborn. A doula provides physical and emotional support to parents and siblings, but they also offer information and advice regarding how to feed, bathe, swaddle, and soothe the baby.

They also often help with postpartum depression issues, and are considered child care “consultants” rather than medical professionals. Many postpartum doulas in Grand Rapids, MI offer a range of services that can help with parents trying to adjust to a newborn child. These services often include:

  • Sibling care
  • Assist with household chores
  • Parent-baby bonding
  • Physical and emotional recovery
  • Support to parents and extended family

A postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI can have a lasting positive impact on a family and help them feel more confident about their parenting role and the way that they feed and nurture their baby. They might offer advice regarding feeding, bathing, and parent-baby bonding.

It is important to note that a postpartum doula might offer advice but is not expected to provide medical care of any kind or serve as a replacement to an accredited physician. Postpartum doulas are also not qualified to prescribe medication.

Many new parents want to know about certified postpartum doulas and how exactly they are certified. Since the demand for postpartum doulas has greatly expanded in the last several years, the number of reputable postpartum doula training and certification programs has grown in Grand Rapids, MI. Training criteria can differ from program to program, but most follow a similar curriculum which includes core academic curriculum and practical hours and real-life care experience.

One of the most common national postpartum doula training certifications comes from DONA International. A postpartum doula usually receives about 27 hours of practical training before they are a certified postpartum doula.

There are also CAPPA-certified postpartum doulas in Grand Rapids, MI, as well. These doulas were certified by the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association, an international organization that certifies doulas and other childbirth educators/professionals.

As a reminder, because postpartum doulas are not trained to be a medical professional and diagnose and treat medical conditions, a certification is not required for them to practice.

As their names suggest, a birth doula’s main priority is to provide support services before, during and in the moments immediately after childbirth. A postpartum doula’s obligations usually begin after the birth, for several weeks or months. In many cases, your birth doula will also be a trained and certified postpartum doula, which can provide a continuity of care that many parents find extremely valuable.

Many parents want to know whether a postpartum doula or a baby nurse would meet their needs and expectations. A baby nurse might be focused on making sure that a baby sleeps or feeds properly, but that might be the extent of their role. A postpartum doula generally offers more holistic services for their clients.

A postpartum doula in Grand Rapids, MI is expected to be more involved with the family as a whole. They might remain involved in sibling care or also provide emotional support to the partner as both parents adjust to becoming new parents. This may even include support for older siblings, light housework, and even meal prep. A postpartum doula provides more physical, emotional, and informational support than a baby nurse.

You can hire two types of doulas in Grand Rapids, MI: a birth doula and a postpartum doula. The birth doula is during your pregnancy and through the birth of your child. They provide you with emotional, physical and educational support during your pregnancy, your labor and delivery and for the first few hours after your child is born.

A postpartum doula will support you for the first few weeks after the baby is born. They provide in-home assistance, including teaching you how to take care of your newborn, acting as lactation consultant, and can provide some night nanny services.

Get Started
keyboard_arrow_up