My partner is planning to be my labour support; do I still need a doula?
The doula does not replace the role of the partner. Instead, a doula helps to enhance the experience, offering advice and instruction to the partner for optimal labour support. Having a doula can take some of the pressure off the partner, allowing them to relax and enjoy the experience more. Studies have shown that having a doula present in addition to the birth partner drastically reduces the occurrence of caesarean surgery and epidural use compared to only having the partner present.