In answering the question, “Does a doula replace Dad on the birth team?” we are going to first answer the question:
“What is the role of a doula?”
A doula's role is to provide non-medical, physical, emotional and educational support to parents during pregnancy, labor, birth and early postpartum.
Doulas provide non-medical support.
Although a doula may be highly trained, a doula does not have medical responsibility for the mother or baby. A doula does not give medical advise or make a diagnosis, rather the midwife, doctor and/or nurses fill these roles. This frees the doula to provide continuous physical, emotional and educational support to the parents.
Doulas provide physical support.
A doula provides physical support in many ways. She may hold the mother's hand, massage her back, do hip squeezes during a contraction, breathe with her, etc during labor. She is physically with the mother and can enter into the moment with her and support her through it it. A doula can also guide Dad as he supports Mom. She makes sure his needs are also met by giving him a chance to eat a snack, rest, or take a walk without leaving the mother alone or unsupported.
Doulas provide emotional support.
Mothers benefit greatly from emotional support as this is a vulnerable and exciting (and maybe even a bit scary) time in their life. Being emotionally supported can make a positive difference in her experience that can flow into other areas of her life. A doula can also bring reassurance to Dad. She can assure him that what is happening is normal, or answer any questions he may have about the birth process.
Doulas provide educational support.
A doula educates new parents on many things relating to pregnancy, birth and postpartum. She educates them on how pregnancy and birth are designed to work, comfort measures and techniques, good nutrition, newborn care, and the list goes on. She provides information so they can make informed decisions that are best for them. This plays a huge role in reducing fear.
Studies have shown that having a doula on the birth team is beneficial for improving outcomes both Mom and baby and a better overall experience. But....
Do Doulas replace Dad?
Absolutely not! Doulas can NEVER replace Dad. Doulas and Dads are in similar but complimentary roles on the birth team. They each can provide support to Mom, but in different ways. Dad knows Mom better and provides a special kind of support that can only come from him. He loves her and baby in a way no one else on the birth team can.
Doulas, however, are in a unique role where they can support both mom and dad without going through a personal life-change herself. Dads are going through a huge transition during a pregnancy and birth himself as he is stepping into the role of father to this new baby.
Just like moms are different in their needs and preferences during labor, so are dads. Some want to be involved every step of the way, some are unsure of how to help or feel unable to help, some would rather not be in the delivery room at all. A doula is there to support Dad as well. She can encourage him as he is supporting Mom. She can guide him in how he can support Mom if he isn't sure how. She can stay with Mom if he needs to take a break or would rather wait outside. A doula can provide reassurance that labor is progressing normally and answer questions that he may have. Sometimes, a doula's presence alone can be reassuring to a dad. It can take the pressure off of trying to remember everything he learned in their Childbirth Education Class. He can just focus on being present with mom and enjoy the birth of his new child. By also supporting Dad, a doula can help him be the superhero Mom needs him to be be during their child's birth.
Resources:
The Birth Partner by Penny Simpkin
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub6/full#CD003766-abs-0007
Catharine is a birth doula and a stay home/homeschool mama of 4. She has a passion for serving women on their motherhood journey. Catharine believes the memories surrounding birth are some of the most precious memories in a woman's life. How she is cared for during this precious and vulnerable time will make a big impact on her life. Each birth is unique and Catharine seeks to provide education and support so each mother can make informed decisions that are best for her. Her desire is that each mother can look back on her birth knowing she was loved and well cared for.
If you are looking for doula support for your birth journey please reach out!
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Disclaimer: This post is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, please discuss any questions or concerns with your provider.
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