Dads/Partners & Doulas

My husband (partner) is my left hand and my doula is my right.
– from Doulas Making a Difference

As a doula, I do not replace dad/partner in the birth process but instead strive to compliment and enhance their experience. A doula is supportive to both the mother and her partner, and plays a crucial role in helping a partner become involved in the birth to the extent he/she feels comfortable.

Today, more husbands/partners are an active role in the birth process. However, some partners prefer to enjoy the delivery without having to stand in as the labor coach. By having a doula as a part of the birth team, a father is free to do whatever he chooses. Doulas can encourage the father to use comfort measures and can step in if he wants a break. Having a doula allows the father to support his partner emotionally and intimately during labor and birth and to also enjoy the experience without the added pressure of trying to remember everything he learned in childbirth class!

As a doula, I provide the advocacy and information necessary to help parents make appropriate decisions and facilitate communication between the birthing woman, her partner and medical care providers.