Some ways how Dads can support their partner during labour

So, what are the best ways to support your loved one through what's likely to be the experience of a lifetime? Here are 10 tips from partners who have been there before to help you be the perfect support during birth.

1. Be aware of their wants

Talk to your partner beforehand about what she does and doesn't want during her labor. You're the one who may need to take charge and let the hospital staff know what your partner wants. If your partner has a written birth plan, make sure you bring it with you to hospital/birth center.

2. Look after yourself!

The mum-to-be is the center of attention, but you'll probably be spending the night at the hospital too, so don't forget to pack some things for yourself. Comfortable shoes are essential. Also remember to bring something to eat and drink – you could be at the hospital for a while.

3. Know what to expect

Labour is not the right time to be flipping through a pregnancy and birth manual, so bone up on your reading beforehand. Remember to go to birth courses with an open mind. You'll get solid, basic information about what labour and birth entails, as well as a sense of how other dads-to-be are planning the event.

4. Be flexible

Labour strategies that work for some women, may not work for your partner. A birth partner's job is to discern what works, and be prepared to drop what doesn't. Well before your baby's due date, you and your partner should take time to discuss her expectations and options. Later, you will be able to take the initiative while keeping her wishes in mind.

5. Be ready to do some hard work yourself!

Giving birth is often a long, hard job. At some point during the hours of labour, you and your partner will discover something she can focus on during contractions. It could be a breathing pattern, a spot on the ceiling, or even soft baby toy you've brought with you. Your job is to help your partner find this distraction, and then bring her back to it whenever she starts to think she won't make it. Your partner will be relying on you to have your concentration levels up.

6. Be prepared for surprises

Neither you not your partner knows what labour will be like, or what will help your partner. You may end up rubbing her feet during birth or doing something else to comfort them, who knows.

7. Be a one-person support team

Though there will be lots of experienced people around to help you, you will be your partner's most important support. Do whatever she needs, from running to the cafeteria for a packet of sweets to getting her another drink or talking things through with your midwife.

8. Know your limits

There's a lot going on in the birth room. Be aware of what you are willing to do during the process, and what you want to leave to the professionals. Do you want to cut the umbilical cord? Are you willing to see the head of the baby coming out? Know your expectations and your limits and remember that you don’t need to push them too far.

9. Be prepared to take charge

Only you and your partner know what you both want, but she may not be in the best condition to make hard decisions. Be ready to step in with some decisive action if the situation calls for it.

10. Be prepared to wait

Unlike what you see in films and on television, most women are in labour for hours, some even days, before they go to the hospital. Many couples find it more comfortable to spend the early stages of labour at home. Besides, many maternity units prefer you wait until your contractions are regular and close together before booking into the hospital. So keep in mind that you may need to do a fair bit of waiting