Dad has such an important role in your birth experience even if he is not your birth coach!
You will look to him for strength and encouragement.
Yes, it will be difficult for him to see you in pain, but he will probably see it as one of the most satisfying moments of his life, because you both can look back and know you got through the hard times as a team! So, here are some things we believe your husband should know before your baby’s birth-day. Have him read this to get prepared (or you can read it and summarize it for him).
Make a plan
It is important to start talking about the big birth-day. Labor is not the time to be reading pregnancy blogs, books, or watching YouTube videos. You should be prepared beforehand. There are plenty of online birthing classes. We love Pearently Natural Birth course.
Start with my FREE Natural Birth Workbook! This 4 Step Process is a great start if you are considering a med-free birth. Click the button below to download the workbook…
Pack your Go Bag
Mama will probably have her Go Bag packed beforehand. It is helpful if you have your own things packed as well. Take the essentials, and things that make you feel most comfortable such as a change of clothes, socks, toiletries, medication, pillow, towel, snacks, phone, charger, and camera. Be the one to remember the bags and carry them to the car.
Be patient
Most Mamas labor for hours (maybe 12+ hours) before they even go to the hospital. It is preferable to stay home in the early stages of labor because the hospital may not even admit Mama until she is having regular contraction every 3 to 5 minutes. So, Dad, start to help Mama at home by practicing breathing techniques, timing her contractions, walking with her, and rubbing her back. Take a nap or eat before going to the hospital as things get intense. Just be with her in the time of waiting, and don’t give in to whining or complaining.
Be her advocate at the hospital
Your wife needs you to be the voice for her. She is not able to think clearly and make difficult decisions. It is important that you know her birth plan beforehand, and are willing to be assertive for her. Be willing to stop healthcare providers when they begin to do something you don’t understand or know is not what your wife wants. Ask questions, and make it known that you are paying attention to the details.
Ask healthcare providers questions
The labor and delivery unit is busy, and healthcare providers don’t always take time to explain what they are doing. This is not good practice, but it happens. It is your job to ask what is happening, and why it is happening. Again, be your wife’s advocate and make sure her wishes are coming true if possible.
Be the encourager
It is your time to shine. Suggest that Mom change positions, and help her focus on her breathing. With gentleness, remind her that she can do it. It is important to find strength even if you are not comfortable with medical situations. She needs you to be strong when she feels weak. Be the Husband Hero! She will be so grateful that you were strong and present in her time of need.
Do you want some help making a plan for birth? I have created my FREE Natural Birth Workbook just for you. This 4 Step Process is a great start if you are considering a med-free birth. Download below…
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