Doula’s and Birthing Partners

A big question we hear during our initial consultations is”‘Will my doula replace my partner?”

The answer is a resounding “No!”

There are so many things that your doula can bring to your birth. Experience, knowledge, comfort measures, etc. 

Your partner, though, brings relationship, intimacy and more to you. They provide a level of comfort and safety that no one else can replicate. Which is a key role in getting oxytocin moving, which helps your labor progress!

Your doula is there to encourage the wellbeing of both you and your partner.  

This is done in a few different ways. 

Providing emotional support throughout the delivery. This could be reminding you how strong you are when you doubt your abilities or encouraging your partner when they feel overwhelmed. 

Providing physical support to both you and your partner. This can be teaching your partner how to provide comfort measure support and trading out with them throughout the labor. Ensuring that you have the physical support you need at all times. 

Providing informational support by answering any questions that you and your partner have as labor progresses or plans change.  

Lastly, providing advocacy for both you and your partner. Advocacy looks different with every doula, but the goal is the same. To ensure that you and your partner are being heard and having your wishes honored while laboring and in delivery. 

As you can see, a doula definitely doesn’t replace the partner during the birthing experience but provides support to BOTH of you.