Dads and Doulas: Working Together
Many dads-to-be worry that a doula will replace them at birth. But a doula can never replace the father's role, which is to be there to love and support his partner. As far as the doula interfering with the intimacy of the moment, the doula is only one member of the birth team, which includes nurses, a doctor or midwife, and sometimes other specialists. In fact, a doula works for you and can help create the birth experience of your choice. The fact of the matter is, our society places a great deal of pressure and responsibility on the father-to-be during labor. Childbirth classes may not be enough to prepare a new, nervous dad to support his partner through what may be one of the most difficult and challenging moments in her life. Is it fair to expect the father to remain 100% focused and calm when his partner is struggling? Here are some of the many ways dads and doulas work together...
Behind the Scenes Birth Coach
For the father who wants to be active and provide all the physical and emotional support, the doula can help with hints, reminders, and advice during the birth so he can just focus on the partner. The doula is trained to figure out what's bothering the mother the most.
Tag Team Birth Support
Most labors last several hours, sometimes lasting 12 hours and longer. A doulas presence allows the father to make guilt-free breaks, without feeling that he has left his partner alone. This will allow the mother to feel supported and cared for continuously.
Chance to Just Experience the Birth
Society places a lot of presure on fathers to provide the sole support for their partners during labor. A doula can provide full support to the mother, allowing the father the opportunity to experience the birth along her side.
Before the birth, its important that the doula, mother, and father all sit together and talk about how they envision the childbirth. it's also important that the father participates in hiring the doula, since they should both feel comfortable with whomever they choose to attend this special moment in their lives.