The job of being a parent can be overwhelming: There’s that tiny human demanding every ounce of your attention. You’re figuring it out on the fly-the late-night diaper change, feeding routine, and translating each little cry. Enter the superhero you probably didn’t know you needed: the Fully Healed Mama – postpartum doula cost. It’s like having eyes on the most delicious cake in the room but being unsure if you’ll cut a slice.

Doulas are the magic elves of new parenthood, swooping in with comforting presence, doling out lactation tips, and reminding you it’s totally normal not to have showered in three days. Can’t doulas just wave that magic wand and make their services a smidgen more affordable?

Let’s now begin to delve into ideas to make this vital help a little more affordable. Capture the winds of change in your sails by finding ways to lower that expense so you are not left high and dry.

First, look to community programs. Most towns have programs in which the doulas volunteer their time to the families who cannot afford it. Check with local hospitals or parenting groups for resources. Many times these programs are the unsung heroes of support-ready and willing without charging an arm and a leg.

Another leaf to flip over: insurance, insofar as some policies can cover doula services, though that might take some legwork. You are likely going to wade your way through a river of paperwork, but of course, an unexpected find is well worth the dig, no? Ask your provider to see if there is some hidden flexibility, like a surprise in a cereal box. Spread the word about tax credits and flexible spending accounts. These may help defray some of the costs of services and cushion a financial shock. One call to your tax advisor may lead to a benefit not yet considered. Every little bit will help you cut the Gordian knot of parenting costs.