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Do Doulas Replace Dads?
Absolutely not! Fathers are often able to participate more fully with a doula present. Many of the fears fathers tend to experience are lessened when a doula is present because she can provide informational support about the labor as it progresses, and her influence allows the father to give the love and support that his partner needs to feel. The presence of a doula complements a father's role and strengthens it. A doula often can give suggestions and encourage the father to touch, to talk, and to help in ways that feel truly comfortable to him and comforting to the mother. Fathers, with the support of the doula, are able to participate at any level that feels right and natural for them. In this way, fathers can fully experience the joy and wonder of watching their babies come into the world.
Dads and Me
I am not there to take the place of a partner but simply help guide and take the stress off of them. With me at their side they don't need to figure out on their own what stage of labor their loved one is in and what is going to happen next. I have helped many nervous dads overcome their fears and participate at their level of comfort. I believe that if a father feels comfortable and informed every step of the way the end result is a greater support to the mother in labor. I am the one constant person that will be by your side from laboring in your home to your place of birth. I look at every birth as a "team" effort with the end goal of having a happy healthy, baby & family. I believe support for the partner and family is extremely important. As a postpartum doula my role varies depending on what is needed.
"Only with trust, faith, and support can the woman allow the birth experience to enlighten and empower her."
~ Claudia Lowe |
