Partners are more active in labor and delivery more than ever before. They attend classes and are involved in the decisions of birth planning. However, partners cannot be expected to become "labor experts" overnight.

Once the women goes into labor, it can be just as scary and confusing for the partner as it is for the mom. It takes experience to feel comfortable assisting a women through childbirth. That is where the doula can assist taking the pressure off the partner and letting him "shine" with her guidance. He then can relax and enjoy the process of labor and delivery. When the companion/coach is confident, the mother picks up on it and also is more confident thus labor moves more swiftly.

************

A Note From A Father:

As a new father, I am often asked if there was any reason to have Jeannie with us to support my wife (and me) through labor and the birth of our son. The answer is an enthusiastic Yes! Jeannie was a great help in many ways. She provided excellent all around assistance and helped create a very supportive environment in the delivery room.

My wife wanted to give birth totally natural, but this was not possible for the entire labor due to her high blood pressure. Jeannie was extremely supportive of us. She was not fixated on any one way things had to be. She was great at "going with the flow" while at the same time helping my wife be more comfortable and focused. She also works very well with medical staff.

I am also asked if Jeannie didn't take over some of my "jobs"? My answer is No! There is plenty of work for everyone to do! It certainly helped my wife to have me and Jeannie supporting her.

- David Lewis

************

Jeannie helped me continue to coach my wife after 18 hrs and then helped with the experience of our cesarean birth.

- Phil B.

************
 
"Jeannie made all the difference to me when I delivered my baby girl.  Her encouragement gave me the confidence I needed."

- Carol W.

************

Jeannie,

Thank you for making our birth experience an "enjoyable" one. Your assistance and friendship are very much appreciated,

-Kris and Chuck T.

************

Jeannie's continuous touch and soft voice led me through labor in having the natural birth I dreamed of. I could not of done it without her.

- Elizabeth C.

************

I wanted Jeannie there to support me. My mom had passed away and I wanted a nurturing woman by our side at the birth and in the days after.

- Janet F.