Doulas and Dads

Have you ever wondered why we need doulas if we have dads, or why we need dads if we have doulas? ;) Here's a great article that explains how doulas and dads work together and have their own unique roles.

"Our culture is one of the few that does not provide continuous supportive care for the laboring woman. Even though men are choosing to take active roles in the birth of their children they are often put in a very uncomfortable situation. They attend childbirth and parenting classes and remain with their partners during the birth process but often feel that they are expected to be the “labor authority” when they do not feel qualified for that role. No matter how good the childbirth education class was that he attended his experience attending births is very limited and for the first time father non-existent. Many fathers realize that they need reassurance, support and guidance also."