Dad to Doula: New Path for Fathers

Birth support roles have traditionally focused on the mother, but a new model in Alabama is shifting attention to the father. Juan Irby, who became the first Black male doula in the state five years ago, is now formalizing this approach through his organization, Dad to Doula.

The initiative stems from Irby's own experience. He developed postpartum depression after the birth of his son and cited a lack of targeted support for fathers at the time. "It started with the birth of my son. I ended up going through post-partum depression, and I didn't have the support that I need at the time," Irby said.

Dad to Doula provides fathers with specific tools to support their partners, care for newborns, and manage their own well-being. The program addresses practical tasks as well as emotional labor. "You have all the power to do whatever you need to do to make sure that your partner come home safe," Irby said.

In October, a community event hosted by I be black girl brought together dads to discuss advocacy during pregnancy and labor. The session included a practical breakdown of household responsibilities. "We can fold the laundry. We can wash the dishes. We can do this too," Irby told the group.

A central focus of the program is the mental health of new fathers. Irby argues that postpartum depression in men is often invisible because of social norms regarding emotional expression. He encourages fathers to seek peer support. "Dads, you need a community too," Irby said.

Attendees reported finding the information valuable. Johnny Nesbit, a father at the event, said he would now choose to work with a doula for the birth process. "I know it's something that my wife would definitely prefer to do as well," Nesbit said.

Irby emphasizes that presence matters more than perfection. He describes fathers as essential to the family unit. "Dads are the heartbeat of the whole entire operation. Like, we want to be seen. We want to be heard about the whole entire process," Irby said.