Ray Ray,

I just replied in another thread about having a birth plan. It was mentioned , actually I will quote it again
a doula cant turn around to a midwife and say 'dont tell her how she's progressing she doesnt want to know' as it creates tension, but I agree encouraging your partner to is a good idea.
Now I think thats crap. To me you are paying this person to be that person who stands up for you & your DH's wishes.

I am having a student Doula this time round. Mostly to help her gain her final birth to qualify. Now seems I am not paying for her service its a little different. But I believe if you feel the need to have a doula there to be the one who speaks up & support your wishes along with remembing those little details others miss from as you say being too emotionally involved then I think you should have one BUT make sure the doula understand what you want of her.

I don't think its fair to pay someone to be your voice but then be ok with the idea of them keeping quite to avoid creating a conflict between midwifes & doula's.

Any conflict that may come up between to the two professions shouldn't be in the hands of the labouring couple.

I realise that many midwifes do turn the nose up at the idea of a doula. but again if thats your choice to have one then so be it. its not your job to make sure the two prefessions are accepting of each others role.