Labour and birth, a man's role

• June 6, 2008
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Pregnancy and birth

Chances are, you are going to be the birth partner when your partner gives birth. Although you don't have to go through the physical strain of having the baby, your support role is just as important.

Most couples will have worked out a birth plan to manage the labour and ensure an active involvement in the birth.  A birth plan sets out your partner's preferred plan for the birth and can include information about what you would like to happen if complications occur.

Now that you've come this far, you're probably excited about sharing the experience of your child's birth.  However if you're feeling nervous, inadequate or a bit concerned that the process might make you squeamish, don't worry - it's normal to experience these concerns!

You've most likely prepared for labour and birth by attending antenatal classes, talking to each other and doing lots of reading and research. If you haven't, start right now! 

How will we know when labour is on its way?
Your partner's body starts preparing for labour by releasing hormones during the last few weeks of pregnancy. The pre-labour symptoms listed below vary in intensity between different people, but can be used as a guide to show that your baby is on it's way:

What is my role during labour?
As a couple, you have probably discussed birth and labour and decided on a birth plan. It's important that you are familiar with the birth plan and your partner's wishes - she'll most likely be far too busy and in too much pain too take care of the details!  As your partner will be doing all the hard physical work, you can be of enormous help simply by being there; offering encouragement and support and making sure her wishes are met.  Here are some basic tips: Continued...

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