10. What the Heck is a NICU Doula (and Why Families Deserve One)

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The NICU Translated Podcast

Mary Farrelly

16 episodes

1 week ago

Welcome to The NICU Translated Podcast, where we break down the complex world of the NICU into clear, relatable insights for families and the professionals who support them. Hosted by Mary Farrelly—a certified NICU nurse, doula, and educator—this podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the NICU with confidence and compassion. Whether you’re a doula looking to better support NICU families, a healthcare professional seeking deeper understanding, or a parent preparing for or living through a NICU journey, you’ll find actionable tips, evidence-based guidance, and heartfelt stories to inspire and empower you. Each week, we’ll explore topics like: -NICU 101: Terms, diagnoses, and medical equipment explained. -Preemie care basics and developmental milestones. -How to advocate for your NICU baby with confidence. -Emotional and trauma-informed support for NICU families. -Insights from NICU professionals and families who’ve been there. With episodes featuring expert advice, list-style guides, and real-life interviews, The NICU Translated Podcast is here to equip you with the tools and knowledge to make the NICU journey less overwhelming and more empowering. Subscribe now and join our community dedicated to bringing more joy and less trauma to the NICU experience—because the NICU is only the beginning. Let’s navigate this journey together.

All content for The NICU Translated Podcast is the property of Mary Farrelly and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

10. What the Heck is a NICU Doula (and Why Families Deserve One)

The NICU Translated Podcast

36 minutes

1 month ago

10. What the Heck is a NICU Doula (and Why Families Deserve One)

If you’ve never heard of a NICU doula, you’re not alone — even many birth professionals don’t know this role exists. But NICU doulas are filling a huge gap in support for families navigating the NICU, and their impact can be life-changing.

In this episode, I’ll explain what a NICU doula does, why families deserve one, and how they can make the NICU journey less overwhelming for parents — and more collaborative for care teams. Whether you’re a parent, a doula, or a hospital leader, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Resources & Links:

Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist

Share this episode with a doula or care provider who could bring NICU-informed care to their community.

Hear my journey in episode one on The NICU Translated Podcast.

Listen to episode 6 with Shayna, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate.

Listen to episode 8 with Jillian, a NICU Doula Academy Graduate.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to NICU Doulas

01:01 Understanding the Role of a NICU Doula

03:22 The Importance of Emotional Support in the NICU

07:06 The Impact of NICU Doulas on Family Well-being

10:10 Supporting Families Through the NICU Experience

12:22 The Role of NICU Doulas in Preventing Burnout

14:37 Continuity of Care: NICU Doulas from Prenatal to Postpartum

17:43 Preparing Families for the NICU Experience

21:22 Post-Discharge Support and Transitioning Home

25:39 The Future of NICU Doula Work and Community Impact

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