I would personally remind him that no matter how much you learn and prepare, labor will be very different than you think it will be. Holding a piece of ice in your hand to simulate a contraction means nothing.

And you truly won’t be along in labor anyway. If he is wanting a personal experience between the two of you, the hospital is definitely not the place to do that. People are in and out all the time.

I personally feel a doula enhances the private feeling of husband and wife in labor. He is able to better help you because the doula will remind him of things he may have forgotten from classes. And, what would he do if he needed to go to the bathroom or get food because you have an enlongated labor? Leave you by yourself?

If none of that works, I would interview doulas. Have him sit with you and talk it out with the doula. Most times actually talking with one about their responsibilities and what you expect helps clear the air of uncertainty.

Hope that helped, please let me know how it goes!

Thanks so much for the advice Kayce!