Doulas + Partners
Are your or your partner nervous about hiring a doula? Maybe you or your partner are nervous and want the birth space to just be the two of you? Is your partner nervous about not having a role in supporting you if you have a doula present? These apprehensions are totally normal and we get these questions a lot. We’re here to ease your mind and address any concerns about having a doula in your birth space!
Doulas DO NOT take the role of your partner. We work together, as a team, to ensure your birth experience is wonderful. As doulas, we know all things birth, and your partner knows you. Together, we make an amazing support team!
Here are a few reasons we can help your partner during your pregnancy + birth:
We are a barometer of normal. When watching your partner give birth, you might hear or see some things that you’ve never experienced before. Our job is to prepare you for those things and when the time comes, assure you it’s totally normal. Often times, patterns give us that look. You know the one — “uhh, is this normal? Is she okay?” and we are here to say YES! Partners can tell by the look on our face or listen to some gentle reassurance & know that all is just how it’s supposed to be.
Partners can nourish themselves & know their loved one is cared for. While birthing people are equipped with wonderful hormones that (often) suppress appetite in active labor and give them energy to endure hours of active labor (or the ability to doze off between contractions) — the support team isn’t equipped with those same hormones! By having a doula, your partner can run to grab a snack, stretch, update family, or grab some fresh air when it’s needed. Partners can eat some food without feeling guilt or worry that you are alone or if something changes quickly that they won’t be updated. It’s so important to have a well nourished partner who is able to take small breaks so they can best support YOU!
We can slow things down & explain the “birthy” terms that might be confusing. During the perinatal period, you might hear a bunch of terms you’ve never heard before. We are there to explain what it is, why it might be suggested, other options you might have, and some risks and benefits. We can be a sounding board while you talk about your options and give you information as needed. Depending on your care provider and birthing location, birth can sometimes feel rushed or you feel like you have to make a choice right that second. We are there to hold space and slow things down for everyone. You might not remember to ask for a few minutes to discuss your options, but we are there to say “Would y’all like a few minutes to discuss amongst yourselves?”
We teach some awesome comfort techniques. Are you nervous about how to support your partner during labor? We are here to help! Doulas have so much knowledge on supporting ALL types of births. We are there to show you how to use a rebozo, preform hip squeezes, where counter pressure feels good, when to pull out the cool washcloths, or when to suggest the shower or bath! If an epidural is placed, we are there to help you rotate, massage, and clean up the room! Is a cesarean needed? We are fully trained to accompany you in the OR. We will be there right by your side, gently guiding or protecting your space as needed. We are usually even able to snap a few pictures for your family if requested to do so!
We doula birth partners too! We can grab you snacks, help you out with comfort measures, answer a text from your family, remind you to eat, drink, stretch, and grab fresh air. We are there to answer your texts and calls, answer all of your questions, and provide continuous, non-judgmental support. We are there to steady your hand and hold space as you support and witness your child being born!
We hope this helps ease any concerns you or your partner might have about having a doula in your space! Have more questions? Contact us to schedule your free consult!
xoxo,
Bella Birth