The baby gift industry is a 12 billion dollar a year industry. Yes babies do require quite a lot. But 12 billion dollars’ worth?!
For the seasoned moms, how many gadgets or things that you received as a baby shower gift went unused? How many onesies or outfits went unworn because baby grew out of them?
Let’s flip the script for a moment. What if I told you, you could exchange those unused items for a birth doula or lactation consultant? Or even better, a Postpartum Doula; an unbiased, trained, objective person to come to your home, hold baby while you shower or eat, do laundry, do your dishes, answer all your “is this normal” questions about baby, breastfeeding and your recovery. Someone who can show you all the ways to soothe a colicky baby, and how to babywear. Someone who will listen to your birth story, let you cry, rant or yell while she listens and understands. And don’t forget a warm, nutritious meal that you don’t have to prepare, would you make that exchange?
I know I would have.
I’m here to tell you, you can and should add postpartum doula support hours to your baby registry. It’s a great way for family who is far away to help you out since they can’t be there in person to help.
Many doulas offer gift certificates. I do on my own website. But there is also a website dedicated solely to this.
From their website:
Motherhood changes everything. You deserve a gift that changes with you. Register for the services you need. Get funds to pay for the support you deserve. All in one place. Because let’s face it: No one needs more stuff. Instead of being gifted thousands of dollars of expensive baby items (42 newborn-size onesies anyone?) we’re helping moms get what they really need: Support! The perfect gift, every time. It’s simple: The parents-to-be add the services they want to their registry. Friends and family send money directly to the new parents using our unique cash registry. New moms use the funds to get exactly what they need (and deserve).”
Check out behervillage.com or ask your local doula if they offer gift certificates and add their support to your gift registry.