Inspiring Conversations with Elyse Rusaw of South County Doula

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elyse Rusaw.

Elyse, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
As a mom to three amazing children, my journey into the world of postpartum work began after my first daughter was born. I’d always been intrigued by the whole process of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum phase, but I was a bit lost on how to turn that interest into a career.

The real turning point happened after my second daughter came along. She had a high-risk, medically complicated pregnancy, which ultimately led to a c-section. After her delivery, I struggled with postpartum depression. It was a very difficult time, and it got me thinking about how I could help other women going through similar experiences. I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, so I started out working at a local OBGYN and midwifery practice in Laguna Beach.

In July 2020, I found out I was expecting my son. That brought a whole new adventure with 24 weeks of bed rest. With this delivery, I was able to have the unmedicated VBAC I desired! Once he was born, I decided to stay home with him for a while. During that time, I really dug deep to figure out where I wanted to make my mark in the birth and postpartum world.

I realized my true passion was taking care of moms and their newborns in the postpartum period. I love helping new moms process their birth stories, giving new moms the physical and emotional support they need after childbirth, supporting moms in their breastfeeding journey, cooking nourishing meals to help them heal, and teaching them all the essentials of newborn care.

Becoming a mom myself opened my eyes to the immense support that families need, especially in those early days. I want to make sure that moms in our community feel the love and support they need as they find their own groove as a family. There’s something truly magical about helping moms build their confidence as they step into motherhood!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being a postpartum doula certainly comes with its own unique set of challenges! The physical demands of the job can be taxing (middle-of-the-night wake-ups are hard on everyone!), and the varying schedules can make it tricky to balance work and personal life. Owning my own business has its own share of hurdles; I’ve had great mentors who have walked me through marketing, client management, and maintaining financial stability. Through it all, practicing self-care has been key in allowing me to provide the best support to new mothers and families. It’s all about finding that balance and staying committed to the rewarding work of helping others during this pivotal time.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As the journey into parenthood unfolds, the support and care received during the postpartum period play a pivotal role in shaping the experience for new parents. At South County Doula, my mission is to transform this period into a time of joy, connection, and confident beginnings. Here’s what you need to know about the heartbeat of my postpartum doula services.

South County Doula isn’t just a service; it’s a family. What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to treating each client as if they were a cherished member of my own family. As a DONA-certified postpartum doula, I bring expertise, compassion, and a genuine desire to make the postpartum period a dreamy and memorable time for every family I serve.

I specialize in providing a harmonious blend of physical and emotional support during the postpartum period. From assisting with newborn care to guiding parents through the nuances of breastfeeding, I address a wide spectrum of needs with care and expertise.

South County Doula is known for exceptional expertise in sleep guidance (or as I like to call it, sleep shaping) and breastfeeding support. I understand the challenges new parents face in these areas, and I am dedicated to providing the knowledge and support needed for a seamless journey.

What makes me most proud brand-wise is the sense of community I foster. Beyond the doula-client relationship, I have become a supportive village for my clients. I take pride in staying connected with families long after our services are complete, celebrating milestones, and sharing in the joys of parenthood.

Whether you’re navigating the first weeks with a newborn or seeking guidance on establishing a nurturing routine, South County Doula is your partner in this beautiful journey. My offerings extend beyond traditional doula services; we’re here to empower you with knowledge, build lasting connections, and ensure your postpartum period is filled with comfort and joy.

As you embark on the adventure of parenthood, remember that South County Doula is here to nurture and support you every step of the way. My commitment to personalized care, expertise in sleep shaping and breastfeeding, and the creation of a supportive community make me more than a service – I’m a cherished part of your family’s journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.southcountydoula.com
• Instagram: @southcountydoula
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/southcountydoula

Image Credits
Megan Watkins Photography Juls Megill Photography