For partners, Lindsey can:

• guide you in applying what you learned in childbirth class
• spell you so you can get a meal, a short nap, or just a break during a long labor
• bring the mother beverages, hot packs, or ice, so that you don’t have to leave her side to do so
• reassure you if you are worried about the mother’s well-being
• help you understand what the mother might be feeling and interpreting the signs of labor progress
• help you participate in the birth the way you are most comfortable by making sure the mother’s needs are met
• photograph or videotape you and the mother during labor and birth, and the two of you with the baby afterward, if you desire

A note to partners:

A doula cannot and does not try to take over your role as the birth partner, because you know the mother better and love her and the baby as no one else does. But there are many times when a woman needs more than one helper in labor, and when her partner needs reassurance, advice and help. Fortunately, Lindsey is a non-threatening, gentle presence and remains watchful and sensitive to the needs and feelings of a mother’s partner, with the ultimate desire of creating the best support team possible in the labor room.

-“Dads and Doulas.” DONA. 2005. Web. 7 Feb. 2010.

Partner Testimonials:

"A year ago, I didn't know what a doula was. So when my newly-pregnant wife, Lauren, told me that she wanted to have Lindsey as her doula, I initially felt a bit threatened. I wanted to be "the hero" -- the one to help my wife on our special day. I was wrong to fear that way. In fact, Lindsey taught me how to most effectively be what Lauren needed. Lindsey does more than bring hot tea and light candles in the birth room. She set me up to help Lauren and our baby in a way that really mattered. She wanted to hear about what our goals in childbirth were and to help facilitate their realization. When Adelaide was born and the dust settled a bit, I realized that without a doula like Lindsey, my job and our experience would have been characterized by stress. Thanks to Lindsey, stress is not a word that we use when describing our daughter's birthday."