An increasing number of sleep-deprived parents with newborns are seeking the assistance of “night nannies” to navigate the early challenges of parenthood. However, the support offered by these “night nannies” or “newborn specialists” extends far beyond the dark hours of the night.
Stephanie Boyd, a specialist in newborn care, emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive care to both infants and parents following childbirth to ensure positive outcomes.
These services are currently witnessing high demand, yet, it is noteworthy that “newborn specialist” services remain uncovered by insurance.
Stephanie Boyd, a postpartum doula and newborn care specialist, is also one of the co-founders of Swaddled Newborn Care. The company boasts a dedicated team of women offering overnight care, daytime support, sleep coaching, and lactation assistance for families with newborns.
The demand for Swaddled Newborn Care’s services is so substantial that Boyd’s team is fully booked through early 2024.
Kristen and Alan Lopez, new parents, welcomed their daughter, Winter, into the world almost a year ago. Upon hearing about Swaddled Newborn Care, they decided to give it a try. Stephanie Boyd became their newborn specialist.
For the Lopezes, this decision has proven to be one of the best they’ve ever made. Boyd initiated her assistance within 24 hours of their daughter’s birth.
“New parenthood entails a lot of rapid change and can be overwhelmingly challenging,” Kristen Lopez expressed. “My body was still in the healing process. Stephanie helped us get some much-needed sleep. She also guided us in installing our car seat. Her help was invaluable. When babies are still incredibly delicate, it’s natural to be anxious about entrusting them to others, but we had complete confidence in Stephanie.”
Alan Lopez added, “During the initial days, there are countless questions, like ‘Is this how it’s supposed to be or look?’ For first-time parents, having someone there to answer questions and demonstrate the best ways to care for the baby and the mother is a huge relief.”
Boyd not only assisted with sleep training Winter and breastfeeding but also lent a hand with household chores and meal preparation when the Lopezes were preoccupied with their infant.
“I provided support during those first few nights, aided Kristen with breastfeeding, and cared for Winter when she was having trouble sleeping,” Boyd explained.
Boyd underscores the significance of supporting both the baby and the parents for the sake of favorable outcomes.
“Postpartum depression and anxiety are commonly experienced by women, and our services can be particularly beneficial because sleep deprivation can have a significant impact on one’s mood,” Boyd remarked.
Efforts are underway to make services offered by companies like Swaddled Newborn Care more accessible to a broader range of families. Presently, “newborn specialist” services remain without insurance coverage.
Swaddled Newborn Care offers overnight care starting at $35 per hour and daytime support starting at $30 per hour. The company accepts Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) provided they are approved by one’s insurance.
Boyd hopes that healthcare and insurance providers will recognize the importance of ensuring that more families receive comprehensive support during this vulnerable period.
“We are here to provide care, not to pass judgment, and we will do our utmost to offer the care that families need,” Boyd emphasized.
