Birth Partners can help with supporting their partner by using massage or reinforcing breathing techniques. It has been found that support from people that women are familiar with, helps to reduce their need for pain relief in labour.

Birth Partners can be a big help by helping you stay focussed. Therefore choosing the right person is important. You should not be worrying about their wellbeing. It should be someone who can allow you to be yourself. Do remember however that your birth partners should want to be with you and not be there out of a sense of duty.  It is important that this is discussed prior to coming into hospital for labour.

Suggestions to help you support your partner during labour:

  • Be aware of any preference of pain relief so you can suggest and remind her. 
  • Ensure that she understands what is going on and ask the midwife if there is anything you do not understand.
  • Encourage her to stay upright and active.
  • Offer massage… if she likes it! Backache is experienced by around 90% of women in labour. Gently massage the lower back, by using the heel of your hand and rub in a circular motion. Deep pressure can also help relieve backache. Stroking and gentle touching of her arms, face and back can help reduce pain sensation.
  • Try warm flannels and cold compresses. Soak a flannel in warm water and press it on her back during a contraction. Offer a cool flannel for her brow during strong contractions and when she is pushing.
  • Make sure she is drinking enough. Dehydration can make the body work less effectively. 
  • Expect labouring women to go into their own world. They may not want you chatting or speaking to lots of people. They may want peace, dimmed lights and quiet music. 
  • Keep positive. Praise her at how she is doing. Reassurance is what she is wanting. Even if you do feel repetitive keep the praise and boost her confidence. 
  • Remind her to empty her bladder. A full bladder can cause a lot more pain during a contraction.
  • Be on the lookout for transition. This is the phase just before pushing when a lot of women may become emotionally confused and may want to give up. Other symptoms are hot flushes, nausea, vomiting, shaking.
  • Ensure that you look after yourself. Plan ahead and have some snacks and drinks ready to bring in with you. 
  • Ensure that your partner gets the privacy and rest she requires after the birth and is not inundated with too many visitors.
  • Remember your phone and charger to take pictures.