The number of postpartum appointments fluctuated throughout late 2024 and early 2025, often in parallel with birth trends and staffing changes. In October 2024, a high birth rate led to a corresponding rise in postpartum visits, especially as doulas aimed to complete these visits before transitioning out of the organization. In December, the number of visits dipped—partly due to fewer births and partly due to doulas leaving the program. As a result, some clients experienced interruptions in postpartum care. January saw another increase in appointments as the birth rate picked up again and staffing began to stabilize. However, February showed a drop, which may reflect ongoing gaps in follow-up and client engagement after birth.

Hospital discharge staff, care coordinators, and community health workers can all support stronger connections to postpartum services. These partners can help ensure clients understand what to expect in the postpartum period and how to stay in touch with their doulas. Internally, lead doulas and program coordinators are responsible for monitoring client progress and making sure that postpartum visits are scheduled and completed. Field nurses and other outreach workers also play an important role in reconnecting with clients who may become harder to reach once they’ve given birth.

Offering clients meaningful, personalized experiences during postpartum visits has been effective in encouraging participation. Gift bags, self-care items, and special activities like walks or shared meals make the visits more engaging and give clients something to look forward to. Doulas who maintain contact via text between visits also tend to see better follow-through, especially when a relationship of trust has already been built. For clients who are harder to reach after birth—often due to fatigue, isolation, or prioritizing infant care—gentle persistence and culturally relevant outreach make a difference. Framing these visits as essential care, not just check-ins, helps convey their value.

To strengthen postpartum appointment attendance, SisterWeb can continue offering incentives and self-care activities tied to each visit, while also reinforcing their purpose during prenatal care. Doulas should review the full postpartum care plan with clients before delivery so expectations are clear. Strengthening follow-up systems—such as automated reminders, check-in calls, and collaborations with community health workers—can also help reduce drop-off. Additionally, emphasizing the emotional and physical health benefits of postpartum doula support may help clients prioritize these visits even during the demanding early weeks after childbirth.