5 Ways to Support your Partner During Labor: A Guide for Birth Partners

Welcoming a new life into the world is both exhilarating and challenging. For many, labor and birth bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. As a birth partner, your role is vital during this transformational time. This guide explores five essential ways to support your partner throughout labor and delivery, ensuring a nurturing and empowering experience.

Understanding Labor and Birth Expectations

Getting an idea of how you both envision labor, birth, newborn care, and postpartum can be a great starting point. Having a good overview of what might happen in labor and birth helps you understand your options in each scenario. This knowledge can guide you in deciding what your values are. As a Naturopathic Doctor and Birth Doula, I help facilitate these conversations.

Here are some questions that might be helpful to get started:

• Do you know what the different stages of labor look like?

• How does your partner typically handle pain?

• What options do you have for medical pain management? What about non-medical options?

• What does the process look like if your partner is offered induction?

• Do you have any cultural or religious preferences regarding labor and birth?

• Are there preferences around newborn care that might be offered, such as the Vitamin K injection, antibiotic eye ointment, delayed cord clamping, or newborn bathing?

• How will you both prepare for postpartum?

  
  

By discussing these topics, you can both gain clarity and confidence about the journey ahead.

Managing Labor Contractions Effectively

A contraction can last around 60-70 seconds. How are you helping your partner through this time?

You can also download a contraction timer app to keep track of the contractions. This tool can help you know when to head to the hospital while your partner focuses on laboring.

Childbirth with Confidence workshop

The Power of Physical Touch

Physical touch can provide immense comfort during labor. Your partner may benefit from massage, counter-pressure on the lower back, or simply holding their hand. Being attentive to their needs ensures they feel supported.

Frequent position changes can help manage discomfort and facilitate the baby’s descent. Encourage your partner to try various positions, such as standing, kneeling, or using a birthing ball.

Every labor is unique, and your partner's preferences may change throughout the process. Stay aware of their cues and adapt your physical support accordingly. For example, during contractions, pressing on their back might provide relief. During breaks, gentle hand-holding might feel more comforting.

I review these techniques in the Acupressure and Massage for Labor and Birth workshop

Advocating for Your Partner

Your role as an advocate for your partner’s preferences is crucial during labor. If your partner is in pain, fatigued, or focused, you may need to speak for them. Familiarize yourself with their birth needs so you can effectively communicate their wishes to healthcare staff.

If any procedures are suggested, ask questions for clarification. Think about the BRAIN acronym:

• B: What are the benefits of this intervention?

• R: What are the risks associated with this intervention?

• A: Are there any alternatives?

• I: What is my intuition telling me?

• N: What would happen if we do nothing?

  
  

You can always ask for 15 minutes to discuss privately before making a decision.

Preparing for Labor

Consider some ways you can aid in preparation. Can you set up a serene space for your partner to labor? Can you pack the birth bags or install the car seat? Bonus points if you just take the initiative without asking for guidance!

Setting up a serene space (whether at home or in the hospital) can include:

• Softening the lighting by setting up a lamp in a cozy room.

• Adding soothing music or nature sounds to create a calming atmosphere.

• Setting up a diffuser with some of their favorite scents.

• Pumping up a birth ball or peanut ball for comfort.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Using these 5 Ways to Support your Partner During Labor

Supporting your partner during labor and birth is both a privilege and a responsibility. Don't hesitate to reach out for assistance from myself, a naturopathic birth and postpartum doula in Mississauga and Milton, for additional guidance and support.

Labor is a beautiful journey filled with emotion and transformation. As a supportive partner, you can make this experience not only memorable but also manageable. Your love, presence, and encouragement will be invaluable in this incredible adventure of parenthood together.

Book an appointment today to start your journey.