My doctor says I don't need a doula. If he doesn't want me to have one, why should I hire one? Evidence proves that women with doulas have easier, shorter more satisfying labors. I would question any doctor that does not want you to have professional labor support. Unless your doctor volunteers to sit with you throughout your entire labor, massage your feet, climb into the shower and hold you up, apply counter-pressure to your aching back, help you balance on the birth ball, wipe your lady-parts, change your sheets, run and fetch you cool drinks, feed your husband, mop your brow, help bathe you after your baby is born and take those first newborn photos, you may wish to hire a doula. A doula does not interfere with your medical care, but she does cater to your every need during labor in a way that doctors, midwives and nurses cannot.

If I am giving birth with a midwife, why do I need a doula? Your midwife is a medical professional. She is responsible for concentrating on the medical needs of you and your baby.  If you are giving birth in a hospital, your doctor, nurse and midwife may be also caring for other women in labor.  Your doula is by your side from the moment you call her to attend you in labor until after your baby is born. She provides you with continuous care.

Most fathers have had little opportunity to experience birth.  They may find it overwhelming, very stressful, and even frightening to see you in pain.  Doulas support not only the laboring mother, but her partner as well. Your doula can teach your partner how to help you cope with pain.  She can help him understand what is happening and help him communicate with the hospital staff.

There will be times during labor when your partner may need to use the bathroom, eat something, or get some fresh air.  If he is afraid to leave your side, he may become exhausted.  An exhausted mate will be little help to you once your baby is born.

Initially you may both be riding the high of joy that comes with giving birth, but the following day (when you have had too many visitors and you have been woken up repeatedly to have your vital signs monitored) you will be exhausted - just in time to leave the hospital and go home with a newborn. With your doula by your side, your partner may even be able to take a nap during labor.