What’s the difference between a postpartum doula and a nanny?

I get asked this a lot: “So… are you kind of like a nanny?”

Short answer: nope. Long answer: it’s a little more nuanced. A postpartum doula and a nanny both care for babies, but the heart of the work—and the way it’s done—is pretty different.

A nanny’s primary role is long-term childcare. They’re usually hired to watch the baby or kids while parents work, run errands, or take time away. Their focus is mainly on the children.

A postpartum doula’s role, on the other hand, is short-term, family-centered support. My focus is on the whole family’s well-being—especially the birthing parent. I’m not there just to take care of the baby. I’m there to help parents recover, rest, learn, and gain confidence in those intense early weeks.

A peek into what I actually do as a postpartum doula:

Just in the past week with a first-time mom, I…

• Burped the baby and held upright to keep all the nutrition down, while mom pumped.

• Gave mom a scalp rub before she drifted into a nap.

• Emptied the diaper trash (because yes, those little things add up!).

• Washed bottles and pump parts.

• Laundered tiny baby clothes and put them away.

• Bathed the baby (while teaching mom how to do it with more confidence).

• Reassured mom that fussiness during diaper changes, spitting up, and even choking during feeds are all normal.

• Explained and practiced tummy time variations and eye-tracking play.

• Talked through different feeding holds and the benefits of them.

• Problem-solved mom’s (totally valid) questions with her. Validated her feelings.

• Processed the birth experience with her.

• Encouraged and affirmed that she was doing a great job, because she was!

• Reminded her to eat a meal, drink water, and simply take a break.

In other words: I’m part baby whisperer, part house fairy, part coach, part big sister, part encourager.

Why this matters

The early postpartum days can feel overwhelming and isolating. My job is to bring calm, comfort, and reassurance into that space. I don’t just care for the baby—I care for you. I step in where needed, answer questions that pop up at 2am, and hold space for all the emotions that come with new parenthood.

The perfect gift

So, grandmas (and aunties, and best friends)… if you’re wondering what to gift your daughter, daughter-in-law, or friend who just had a baby—skip the extra onesie or toy. 💯 Hire her a postpartum doula. She’ll thank you later. 😉

I love this work so much, and I’m always honored to walk alongside families in those tender early weeks.