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Ask A Doula
Questions and Answer

Q. I want to hire a doula to help us through labor. How to broach the subject with my husband? Will he feel left out?

A. Husband's are wonderful people. They offer emotional support and are strong physically. They want to share in the incredible experience that the birth of their child is. What they lack however is knowledge of the normal birth process. They do not know the many possible variations of labor. They cannot possibly remember all the positions, breathing techniques and little reminders that can make a labor go smoothly and comfortably. With a doula present, a husband can take part as fully or as simply as he chooses. A good doula will work together with your husband to support you fully. She will show him how to rub your back the way you like it, she will encourage both of you to get in the shower, or dance slowly together or go for a walk.

Ask your doula for referrals so that he can talk to other husbands. Most of them will gush over with praise about how the doula made it possible for him to really enjoy the birth without worrying about all the technical details. The simple task of taking a sip of fluid after each contraction can be overwhelming to a couple in labor.

Would you go on a journey through the jungle without a guide? The guide will only enhance the experience for you both, pointing out sights you might not otherwise see, ensuring your safety, and encouraging both of you to relax and enjoy the moment.

Childbirth Education

How do you become an educator?

Ilana Stein has been working professionally with pregnant women since 1983 as a childbirth educator, labor assistant and breastfeeding consultant. She was originally certified by the American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth (The Bradley Method), The Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators (ALACE), and Doulas of North America (DONA). She teachs the ALACE Labor Assistant training workshop nationwide. She has spoken at conferences and at the New York University Graduate Program in Midwifery about labor support. She is a Positive Pregnancy and Parenting Fitness (PPPF) instructor and La Leche League Leader. She is also a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor at the local YMCA. She volunteers as the coordinator of the annual New York Area YM-YWCA Women’s Wellness Weekend.