"A 2007 analysis funded by the National Institutes of Health found that fathers who were more involved throughout pregnancy, including participating in prenatal care, childbirth classes, and being present at the birth, were more likely to participate in child-rearing and engaged in a higher level of cognitively stimulating activities with their young children. These fathers also showed more warmth and nurturing behaviors toward their children and provided more hands-on physical care, such as changing diapers and giving baths."
"Studies show fathers participate more when a doula is present. Moreover, with doctors, nurses, and possibly several others in the room, birth is usually not a quiet, low-key affair. In fact, in order to help protect the couple's intimacy and shield them from chatter, background noise, and other intrusions, a priority for the doula is to make the room as calm and peaceful as possible."
"Studies have documented fathers' stress levels surging at various points throughout labor. That's not surprising, since apart from the intensity of the experience, fathers sometimes feel torn between different roles. They want to support their partners, which takes a good deal of focus, but they also feel responsible for taking on other jobs, like negotiating with hospital staff and advocating for their partners' needs. Studies show that dads feel less pressure to advocate when doulas are present."
All fromThe Doula Guide to Birth.
I absolutely agree that when a doula is there to help support BOTH parents, the partner is able to focus on the much more crucial task of providing support for the mother.
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