You Don’t Need a Certificate to Care for New Mothers

Let me just say it:
You don’t need a certificate to support someone in the postpartum period.

I know. It might be an unpopular opinion in a world obsessed with qualifications and credentials.
But I’ll stand by it.

Because the postpartum period isn’t a clinical crisis.
It’s a deeply human transition.
And what most new mothers need is… another human.
Someone kind. Present. Unflustered by mess and big feelings.
Someone who just gets it.

You don’t need formal training to:
– Make her a warm cup of tea without asking
– Notice that the washing has been sitting in the machine since yesterday
– Hold the baby while she showers or cries or both
– Listen without fixing
– Sit in silence without making it awkward

These are “soft skills,” yes.
But don’t let the name fool you.
They are powerful. And honestly? They can’t be taught.

If you’re the kind of person who naturally sees what others overlook,
If you feel the quiet pull to help women during this raw and beautiful time,
If people tend to open up to you without knowing exactly why…

Then you’re likely already exactly the kind of person postpartum mothers need.

And no, I’m not saying education and training aren’t valuable (I teach a whole course!).
But I am saying: don’t let a lack of formal qualifications stop you from stepping in.

Because the world doesn’t need more perfect.
It needs more present.

You’re allowed to start where you are.
With heart. With humility. With hands ready to help.

So if you've been waiting for a certificate to give you permission to care—
This is it.

With love and respect,

Laura