Strollerderby

I guess from the perspective of someone who thinks her midwife did a great job, and whose husband ran out of the room when he saw me pull our baby out and up to my chest, and had to be chased down by the nurses, I do think these dads deserve praise.

Even now that I've given birth I would be pretty freaked out if I had to help someone deliver their baby in a bath tub.  Believe me, I know the mom does the hard work (and drug-free for me), but the "catcher", especially for a first-timer does have an important role.

Wow, bitter much? Sounds like something that you need to work out in therapy. You slam the Dads that aren't there, but then say that being there is nothing more than hand holding. With that kind of attitude it would be surprising if someone stuck around for 30-40 years. I don't know who's calling these Dads "heroes", but I think most women would be thankfull for a partner who would rise to the occasion.

My husband delivered our third on the living room floor with teh help of my Father. And he did, in fact, do a great deal as she came out with a double nuchal cord and unable to breath (her head was a very dark purle color).

I have always been very proud of how both my husband and father handled themselves in an hectic and frightening experience.

im very grateful and happy that my husband was there for the birth of my child, but i dont think he would be a hero if it was just us two and he had to catch the baby. It's kind of already done once you push him out. and honestly if you were alone your natural instincts would kick in and you could do it all yourself. But dads are nice to have around ;)

treespeed, way to be an ass dude. good job. you're so much better than the poster, obviously.  /sarcasm

Jeanne, considering the alternative outcomes, I really have no idea what you are complaining about.

"And no, I will never, ever, ever let him live that one down. It's too much fun."

Your husband must love you very, very much.

Maeby: irony is clearly not your strong suit.

Thanks Maeby thats sweet. Your husband is a lucky man.

I wonder how the readers would feel if the OP had referred to Doulas/midwives as mere baby catchers.