Some fathers or partners are concerned they may be sidelined or replaced by the Doula during labour. It is after all a very intimate time during the life of a couple. Although individual situations vary, and one should question a prospective doula about her philosophy. Generally the answer to this question is no - she will not replace him. 

Studies have shown that fathers usually participate more actively during labour in the presence of a Doula than without one. A responsible Doula supports and encourages the father and enhances his support style rather than replace him.

The father or partner may be better able to provide continuous support but has little actual experience in dealing with the forces of labour. Even fathers who have had intensive preparation are often surprised at the amount of work involved (more than enough for two people). Even more important, many fathers experience the birth as an emotional journey of their own and find it hard to be objective in such a situation. 

In the past 3 decades, husbands were strongly encouraged to participate in, not just attend the birth of their children. While a woman's life partner and father of the child may well wish to be there, both for his spouse's benefit and as a witness to the birth of their child, it can present him with enormous pressure to know what to "do" to help keep both safe. 

This is an unreasonable expectation. It is possible he has never seen a birth and for sure he has never given birth himself. A doula is knowledgeable and experienced in birth. She can help him (or any partner a woman chooses to have at the birth) get the most out of the experience. 

A doula will be with the labouring woman as soon as she is wanted or needed. This means the partner can participate not panic. The partner can be involved to the extent of his/her own comfort level. No need to memorize the "correct" breathing patterns. No pressure to "know" when to go to the hospital. She can get ideas from the doula as needed.