Congratulations on your pregnancy, you’re embarking on an exciting (but sometimes unpredictable) journey!
Whether it’s your first or third baby, as your pregnancy progresses, you’ll most likely find yourself thinking more about labour. It’s true, labour can be intense, emotional, and full of unknowns. But one thing that can make a real difference is having support from a loving partner.
Having someone by your side who knows how to help, or who is simply calm and present, can make the whole experience feel a little less overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide for partners who want to show up and support in the best way possible during labour.
Basically, the most important thing is just being there. Showing your partner you’re there for them is the first step in being a supportive partner during labour.
It’s also essential to stay calm, be positive and emotionally grounded as this helps create a sense of safety and reassurance when things start to feel intense or unpredictable. Holding hands, offering reassurance and being attentive to your partner’s needs is a great way to be present during labour.
Being informed and asking questions about labour can help you feel more confident, and that confidence can positively influence your partner during childbirth. By attending birth classes, learning about the stages of labour, and understanding hospital policies, you’ll be better equipped to support and advocate for your partner.
There are many things you can do to help create a calming environment for your partner during childbirth. Understanding your partner’s birthing plan allows you to plan for the experience. Playing music, dimming the lights and keeping the room quiet can help, as well as bringing along familiar items such as favourite pillows or essential oils. Try and keep distractions to a minimum to allow your partner to be fully present in the moment.
One of the roles you play as a partner of someone giving birth is one of comfort. If it’s wanted, you can be there to provide hands-on comfort such as massages, counter pressure and holding heat packs, as well as reminding her to breathe, offering water, ice chips, lip balm or whatever else she needs.
There’ll be times during labour when your partner can’t speak up for herself, whether it’s due to pain or just feeling overwhelmed. When you’re familiar with the birth plan, you can help communicate her wishes to hospital staff, while remembering the importance of staying flexible if things change.
Knowing and respecting your partner’s space when she needs quiet or a moment alone is just as important as showing up. Let her take the lead and try not to take it personally if she snaps or changes her mind about something mid-labour. Remember, she knows her body and knows what feels right for her.
Let’s face it, labour isn’t easy, so words of encouragement can go a long way. Celebrate all the small wins, every contraction is one step closer. Stay positive and offer words of support so your partner knows they are doing a great job.
Birth partners are often so busy caring for their partner that they forget to look after their own needs. Remember to eat, stay hydrated and take short breaks if needed. By staying calm and grounded within yourself, you can better support your partner. Bring along snacks, phone chargers and some comfortable clothes.
Remember, you don’t have to get it perfect, but showing up with love, compassion and encouragement will go a long way. Having a conversation with your partner before labour can also help you gain a better understanding of what kind of support they expect from you during this time.
And of course, our experienced Gold Coast obstetricians at Grace Private are here to support both you and your partner throughout pregnancy, labour and beyond. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions, attend appointments together and get personalised advice from our caring team, we’re with you every step of the way.
