With a doula present, the pressure on the father is decreased and he can participate at his own comfort level.
Fathers often feel relieved when they can rely on the doula for help.
Doulas do not take over for the Partner. She helps to make an intimate atmosphere for the couple to birth in by allowing the partner to be there to love the woman during childbirth and to provide more support which in turn gives the best chance for an optimal outcome. Some partners prefer to be there only to witness the birth of their child, they may not want to play an active role or be responsible for the woman's comfort and emotional security. The doula can fill in and allow the partner to participate as they wish. When the partner chooses to be the major source of emotional support, the doula can supplement his or her efforts by running errands, making suggestions for comfort measures, and offering words of reassurance.