Tips For Labor Coaches
It may be hard to watch someone you care about in the pain
of childbirth, but it
is also one of the most rewarding experiences to be able so watch the birth of
a child, especially if it is your own baby that you have been watching grow in
your partner's stomach for the past 9 months.
Here are some tips to help you be the best possible labor
coach during such an important time:
Be prepared: Go to childbirth class with an open mind and
bone up on your reading about the birth experience beforehand so that you know
what to expect. Go into labor knowing different techniques to keep your mate
relaxed and focused so that you can use what works and drop what doesn't.
Be ready to wait: Most women are in labor for hours before
going to the hospital, and many hospitals won't even let you check in until
contractions are regular and about 5 minutes apart. Be ready to take this time
to do whatever your partner finds relaxing, and quietly bond for the last time
as a couple before officially becoming a family.
Don't take things personally: A woman in labor is under a
lot of physical and emotional stress. She may get snappy or seem to retreat
within herself. Also, something that helped early in labor (like massage) may
become intolerable later in the process. Remember this has nothing to do with
you personally.
Ask questions: Don't be shy about asking your medical
professionals questions about what they are doing and whether it is mandatory.
Ask questions about the procedure or getting your partner comfortable whenever
they come to you, and be prepared to ask questions on behalf of your mate too.
Be your partner's advocate: Know what you and your partner
want beforehand because it may be up to you to make some tough decisions when
the need arises, since your partner may not be in the best of shape. No birth
goes exactly according to plan, and you may have to step up if the situation
calls for it, making sure your mate's needs are being met.
Be flexible: Every birth is unique. This means you need to
be able to see what's working during labor and what isn't so that you can help
the birth and labor process go as smooth as possible. Be ready to explore
different options, and discuss your expectations with your partner in the weeks
leading up to your due date.
Know your limitations: Be aware of what you are willing to
do during the birth and what you'd rather leave up to the professionals. Let
them know too.
Bring some things for yourself: You may be spending the
night at the hospital. Make sure to pack a clean shirt and underwear,
comfortable shoes, a sustaining snack (that doesn't have much odor), a
toothbrush, and anything else you think you may need.
Remember, your presence matters. Just by being there you are
offering your support and making this a special day for your new family.
