Re: a doula - they're there to support BOTH of you during labour. My husband was sceptical when I wanted to hire one for the birth of our second son. He thought that we wouldn't need one, however, I felt really pressured with our first birth and lots of intervention and I wasn't able to speak once I was in labour and we'd done plenty of reading and attending Calmbirth classes, so although my husband 'knew' a lot, it was vastly different on the day. A doula can advocate for both of you. They will meet with you several times before your baby is due and will know what you and your wife want/don't want. They are experienced in attending hospitals and know the jargon and what to expect. I saw our doula as the bridge between us and the hospital system. She was awesome support for both us. B.c as much reading as you do, nothing really prepares you for birth as it's just so different for everyone. You can 'interview' a few doula's to see if you get on with them and there's no pressure to hire somebody if you feel that they're not right for you. My husband was absolutely in favour of us hiring the same doula again for our third pregnancy/birth. She was worth every cent we paid and more. It takes some of the pressure off you and provides double the support for your wife. Often the hospital staff will come in and out of your room and often, it's just the two of you in the room, so having somebody there, who can help you understand what's going on, is invaluable.
Wishing you all the best for the rest of the pregnancy and becoming new parents!
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