Birth is a transformative journey, not just for the mother but also for her partner. Having a supportive partner can make all the difference, providing the comfort, strength, and reassurance a birthing woman needs. So, let’s dive into seven essential ways partners can offer their support during this incredible experience.
1. Be Present and Stay Calm
The simplest yet most powerful thing a partner can do is to be present. Your presence provides reassurance and a sense of safety. It’s normal for emotions to run high during labour, but staying calm and grounded can help set a positive and soothing environment for the birthing mama. Remember, your energy will influence the room, so being calm and collected is key.
Tip: Become familiar with positive birthing videos or stories or practice releasing tension and breathing exercises together. This way, you’ll be able to remind each other to remain in control, calm and connected, even when things get intense.
2. Offer Physical Support
Labour can be physically demanding, and many women find comfort in touch. You can help by offering a gentle massage, applying pressure to her lower back, helping her change positions or providing acupressure. Sometimes, even holding her hand or offering a warm or cool cloth can make a world of difference.
Tip: Attend a birth preparation class together to learn different massage techniques and ways to provide physical support during labor.
3. Be Her Voice and Advocate
During labour, your partner may find it challenging to communicate her needs or preferences. This is where you step in. As her advocate, you can ensure that her birth plan is respected, ask questions if something isn’t clear, and make sure her preferences are heard by the healthcare team.
Tip: Before labour, discuss her birth plan together or use our Mumma.Co connection cards to prompt important conversations between the two of you before your birthing day. Make sure you understand her wishes, any pain relief options she’s considering, and what’s most important to her during the birth experience.
4. Offer Words of Encouragement and Affirmations
No two labours are ever the same. Your partner might feel overwhelmed, and that’s when your words of encouragement become so important. Remind her how strong she is, that she’s doing an amazing job, and that you’re proud of her. Positive affirmations can give her a much-needed boost when things get tough.
Tip: Write down a list of affirmations or encouraging phrases before labour begins so you have them ready when she needs to hear them most.
5. Create a Comfortable Environment
A comfortable environment can support the normal birth process. Think about what will help her feel safe and relaxed – this might include dimming the lights, playing calming music, using essential oils for aromatherapy, or even bringing a favorite blanket from home.
Tip: Pack a "comfort kit" in the hospital bag with items that can help create a soothing atmosphere, like a portable speaker, essential oils, or a stress ball.
6. Keep Her Hydrated and Nourished
Labour is hard work, and it’s easy to forget about basic needs like staying hydrated. Offer her water or electrolyte drinks regularly and, if allowed, provide light snacks to keep her energy levels up. Staying hydrated can make a significant difference in how she feels.
Tip: Have a water bottle with a straw handy so she can easily sip between contractions without having to move too much.
7. Be Patient and Flexible
Every birth is unique, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. It’s essential to remain patient and flexible, adapting to any changes that may occur. Your steady presence and willingness to to advocate for your partner will help her feel supported, no matter how the birth unfolds.
Tip: Remind yourself that this journey is about being there for her, regardless of how the birth experience progresses. Flexibility is part of the support you provide.
Final Thoughts
The role of a partner during birth is incredibly important. It’s not about having all the answers or being perfect but about being present, loving, and attentive. Your support can help create a positive birth experience, making her feel empowered and cared for.
If you’re preparing to support your partner during birth, remember that you’ve got this. Every kind word, gentle touch, and moment of reassurance goes a long way. Embrace this journey together, and know that your support will be a cherished part of the birth story.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you want to dive deeper into how to create a positive and empowered birth experience, I invite you to join our Positive Birth Program™ or purchase our Mumma.Co Connection Cards. This program provides comprehensive guidance on preparing for birth, helping you and your partner feel confident, informed, and ready to welcome your little one. Together, we’ll explore techniques, strategies, and mindset shifts that will transform your birth experience.
Click here to have a cuppa and learn more about Positive Birth Program™ today in our discovery call. Let’s take this journey together and make your birth story a truly empowering one!