A Mother's Partner and the Doula
A woman's partner is an essential part of her support system during labor and birth. A partner often wants to be actively involved in helping to ease her discomfort, but they may have little to no experience beyond reading a book or attending a basic birthing course. Along with birth comes a new set of processes, language, medical procedure and hospital protocols. It is not uncommon to be overwhelmed by this new world while trying to recall comfort measures useful to his laboring partner. Although many partners are eager to take on this supportive role, there are many who find these expectations unnerving.
A doula can help a woman's partner participate in as much of the birth experience and in whatever level they feel most comfortable with. A doula's relaxation skills may also prove beneficial to the partner if they are feeling anxious about seeing the mother in pain, or shocked by her alternate behavior. A doula can offer reassurance and clarify what are normal parts of the birthing process. She can also provide guidance and suggestions that allow for the partner to provide physical comfort. A doula and a partner's roles complement each other when caring for the mother and because the doula can help the partner effectively nurture the woman, all parties involved are likely to have a better experience.
It is important to remember that a doula does not take the role away from the partner. Her ultimate goal is to see everybody working together successfully to support the mother to be.
A doula can help a woman's partner participate in as much of the birth experience and in whatever level they feel most comfortable with. A doula's relaxation skills may also prove beneficial to the partner if they are feeling anxious about seeing the mother in pain, or shocked by her alternate behavior. A doula can offer reassurance and clarify what are normal parts of the birthing process. She can also provide guidance and suggestions that allow for the partner to provide physical comfort. A doula and a partner's roles complement each other when caring for the mother and because the doula can help the partner effectively nurture the woman, all parties involved are likely to have a better experience.
It is important to remember that a doula does not take the role away from the partner. Her ultimate goal is to see everybody working together successfully to support the mother to be.
