Partner and Doula during Labour – A Strong Team for Safety and Support
Giving birth is a major physical and emotional event. Many expectant parents wonder what kind of support they want during labour. A common question is: What’s the difference between a partner and a doula, and can they work together? This article explains how the partner and doula can collaborate as a team, and how a doula doesn’t replace anyone but strengthens both in their roles.
Read time: 3 m
Verified by Li Lövebrant
Doula & Photographer
What does a doula do?
A doula is a professional support person focused on emotional, practical and physical support throughout pregnancy and labour. They have no medical role but provide a reassuring presence during the entire process.
Common doula duties include:
- Helping the birthing person to relax with breathing, massage and different positions
- Supporting the partner to feel confident and involved
- Remaining calm when everything speeds up or feels overwhelming
- Providing continuity, even when hospital staff change
The partner’s important role and typical challenges
The partner (or another support person like a family member or friend) often has a natural role during the birth. But it’s also common that they:
- Feel unsure about how to best support
- Become stressed or anxious during intense pain or sudden changes
- Need breaks but don’t want to leave the birthing person alone
- Carry their own fears or concerns about the birth
This is where a doula can make a big difference. They are there to support the whole family—not just the birthing person. Through conversation and presence, a doula can help the partner process fears, understand the labour, and feel more secure in their role. This leads to a better experience for everyone involved.
How the doula supports the partner
A doula isn’t there to “take over” but to support both the birthing person and the partner. Examples include:
- Reassurance for the partner: guiding, answering questions and helping them feel included
- Relief: enabling the partner to rest, eat or use the restroom without leaving the birthing person
- Communication: explaining what’s happening at different stages of labour
- Support for the birthing person—via the partner: Some find it easier to let go and concentrate if they know someone is also supporting their partner.
A partnership that enhances the experience
When partner and doula work together, they create a calmer, safer and more positive birthing environment. The partner feels more involved, and the birthing person receives both emotional and practical support.
Studies show that having a doula during labour can result in:
- Reduced perception of pain
- Shorter labour
- Increased sense of control
- Lower stress levels in the partner
Research also indicates that both parents enter parenthood with increased confidence, a lower risk of postpartum depression, and an easier adjustment to the new family dynamic. A doula can offer a more positive experience for the entire family.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to choose between partner and doula?
Absolutely not—many people find the combo provides the best support.
What do partners think about having a doula present?
Most feel more secure and involved with a doula by their side.
Does the partner become less active if there’s a doula?
Not at all—the doula enhances the partner’s presence and engagement.
Want to learn more about doulas?
Check out our article: What Is a Doula and How Can They Support You During Pregnancy and Birth?
Verified by Li Lövebrant
Doula & Photographer
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