I think that especially in Northern Ireland the conversation is more likely to be ‘have you thought about having a doula?’ as many people are still not familiar with the idea and the associated benefits. I would strongly encourage anyone to have a doula involved in their birth. I think that it dramatically reduced my fear and anxiety, contributes to fewer clinical interventions and transforms the role of the father. Dads attending births is still relatively new but there is really very little support to equip them with the skills and knowledge to undertake the role of birth partner confidently and therefore it can be a traumatic event for them. I think that Anne was a major source of encouragement and confidence to both of us.