As a doula I definitely work deeply with my clients on advocacy. I review their desires and history, make sure they feel informed and empowered to their right to their body, medical decisions and autonomy, right to consent. I do try to never advocate for them without them. I am there to support them and guide them. It’s not “my body” and it’s not “my birth” so it’s important not to project my desires on the birth. In many circumstances by carefully reviewing birth preferences the partner can be heavily relied on to step up as a trusted advocate and ally. This requires trust and learning. This is definately a place where the doula can come in. We can help our clients make these choices and support the partner as advocate role. When this works well the laboring mom is able to stay more deeply present to her role of birthing and does not have to emerge into the rational “decision” mind while navigating everything else.