The Role of Your Partner and Your Doula

 

I'm not here to take the place of your partner! Let me repeat that again YOUR DOULA DOESN'T TAKE THE PLACE OF YOUR PARTNER. *Mind blown!*

In many birth vlogs and in photos across the internet, that's what the birthing experience often looks like. A mama travailing in pain, while a doula helps her through contractions, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, etc. while mama's partner stands in the corner watching.

What these videos and photos don't show is that your partner's role is way more important than just standing around waiting to be told what to do. 

Your partner is a vital part of your birthing experience. Their presence, their encouragement, their gentle touch, their voice and their reassurance actually help your body to release oxytocin. This is the hormone that helps your labor and delivery go more smoothly and quickly and honestly, these are the hormones you need to even get labor started! 

In no way do I want to take the place of your partner, they are needed in this age-old dance of birthing. But some partners aren't aware of the effects that their support for their laboring wife, girlfriend, or significant other has on the overall birthing experience. 

With the right doula (hint hint - me!), your partner will be involved in all things mama and baby. I will show your partner how to do everything that I can do. That includes:

- Understanding relaxation techniques

- Understanding pain relief techniques

- Understanding baby care basics 

- Understanding how to advocate for mama

- Understanding how to provide emotional support for mama

- Understanding how to wrap, swaddle and carry baby

- Understanding how to soothe a newborn

- Understanding how to assist in breastfeeding

- Understanding labor and delivery support

- Understanding the postpartum journey

- more 

I also affirm your partner throughout this journey by:

- Letting them know that their presence is appreciated

- Empowering them

- Viewing them as a vital participant in this birth (asking for their opinion, letting them advocate for your preferences, allowing them to speak up and step in)

- Respecting their boundaries and space

- Providing them with emotional support

- Etc.

Birthing is one of the most intimate moments of a couple's relationship. Imagine deepening your bond and your connection with your partner through your childbirth journey! This sacred space is maintained and established by the relationships around you. Let me help you and your partner strengthen your relationship by helping to provide a collaborative, loving and beautiful birth experience for you both.