Supporting your partner during labour and birth
What to pack, what to do and how to advocate on the day.
Before labour
Know the birth preferences, the hospital’s number and the route. Pack your own bag with snacks, a charger, a change of clothes and anything you need for a long wait.
In labour
Your job is comfort and calm: water, massage, encouragement and keeping the room the way your partner wants it. Help with timing contractions in early labour.
Speaking up
If your partner cannot, ask the questions: what is happening, what are the options, can we have a moment to decide?
After the birth
Skin-to-skin is for partners too. In the first days, handle visitors, meals and nappies so your partner can rest and feed.