People are learning more and more how valuable having a doula present at your birth can be for the mother. Having an experienced, calm presence that can act as a translator between you and the medical staff, stays present throughout your labor and delivery, answers questions before, during and after the birth and can advocate for you is immensely helpful.
But sometimes I am told, “My husband will be there, I don’t need a doula.” or, “Will he feel left out? He wants to be a big part of the birth process.”
The truth is, a doula helps dads be MORE empowered to be involved as little, or as much, as they are comfortable with.