How do I as a doula help dad and/or support person during labor so that they can best help their birthing loved?
This starts before labor begins when I provide education during our prenatal visits. I ask questions to learn the role they want to play. I have some dads that feel confident and are ready to roll up their sleeves and get dirty and I have other dads that prefer to take the backseat approach. There can be fear, lack of confidence or they know their loved one wants support outside of just them. Whatever role the dad wants to play, I show up to compliment. I do not replace or take over. I hold space for the entire family and help guide and normalize the process of birth and support their wishes. I bring my toolbox of tips and tricks based of our conversations and am there to whisper into dad’s ear when he has questions or concerns about his role in moment. Sometimes it is reminding them where to place his hands during a contraction, sometimes it is reminding them to tell the nurse a certain procedure is being refused and sometimes it is reminding them to simply sit down and eat a sandwich so they have the energy to support their birthing partner as labor goes on. We work together as a team!
