TRANSCRIPT
Dr. Randall
It’s quite normal to be worried or nervous about the delivery of your baby. Your partner may be uncomfortable and it’s not unusual for fathers-to-be to experience a powerful mix of emotions. You’ll probably feel concerned about the wellbeing of your partner and your baby.
If you’re the coach during labor and delivery, it’s important to be supportive and stay calm. Some things that you can do to be helpful include:
- Help by walking with your partner, watching a movie or listening to music together.
- Time the contractions from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next.
- Offer to massage or apply pressure to her back, if that helps relax her.
- Help her focus on something when she’s having a contraction and remind her to breathe. Slow deep breathing can be relaxing. Breathe with her.
- Stay calm and speak with a relaxing tone in your voice, and
- Encourage her during the pushing stage.
It’s natural for her to feel discouraged at various times during labor. You can help her stay focused and cheer her progress. Talk to the staff and explain things to your partner. And, finally, just being there sends the message that you care and want to be part of the process. It can be an emotional roller coaster that ends in one of the most remarkable high points of life, the birth of your baby.
Be sure to take care of yourself so that you can help your partner during this special time. Remember to keep yourself well hydrated and take time for meals or snack breaks. If you feel dizzy or faint, let the staff know and sit down on a chair next to your partner.
Finally, keep the staff posted if you need to step away so they can let you know if things begin to happen quickly.