as someone who's sister just delivered a baby, I can tell you that the nurses and doctors there said that most men sit in the corner (if they even come at all) and act annoyed. most of the time, they don't seem interested in becoming a father. it's very sad to see.
a doula is not, in any way, a 'substitute' for dad. nor are they even pretending to be. a doula has (or should have, its not super regulated) a very specific set of skills that are to help support the pregnant mother in loads of ways.
we used a doula for both my wife's pregnancies. and i was standing right by her side every step of the way. doula's exist because they have seen a hundred births. they know what to expect even if you and mom dont. they know what might help, even if you and mom both took classes - you're in the trenches now and you forgot. they help you advocate for the birthing experience you want, and hospital staff tend to listen to them better because, again, they've seen 100 births.
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u/Dr-Assbeard Apr 24 '26
Chris here, the joke is sexism, she doesn't expect a man to be present and supportive durig childbirth