“We have a secret in our culture and it’s not that birth is painful, it’s that women are strong.”  -Laura Stavoe Harm

For Dads/Partners

Many years ago expectant fathers were portrayed as nervous, anxious men pacing the hospital floors smoking cigars, awaiting the announcement of their new son or daughter.  Today’s dad is much different.

Today, many dads want to be actively involved in everything from prenatal visits, to childbirth classes, to the actual birth.  There are also many dads that want to be involved but are not comfortable with all aspects of birth.  He wants to participate in the birth of their child but would like some extra help. This is where a trained labor coach, a Doula, can be beneficial.

Doula, pronounced doo-la, is a Greek word that translates to “woman servant.”  A Doula is trained and experienced in childbirth, often, but not always, a mother herself.  She provides continuous physical and emotional support and provides information before, during, and after the birth of the child.

A Doula can explain what is happening and make suggestions for dad to try so that he can help his partner.  The dad and Doula can work together in easing moms labor pains. They can relieve each other for needed breaks if the labor is long so that mom always has an alert and focused person by her side.

The Doula’s main concern is the wellbeing of the parents-to-be.  She knows and understands that the labor and birth of their child will forever be remembered and lived over and over again. The impact of childbirth can be either positive or negative and both parents are affected.

In no way could a Doula take the place of the person that loves mom most. Their love, after all, is what brought the child into the world.  Having a Doula present gives mom the best of both worlds- dads love and attention and the Doula’s knowledge and guidance.