Birth partner’s guide to childbirth

Being a birth partner is so special. Your support is very important. Here are ways to help during labor:

Educate yourself

Go to childbirth classes and read about birth.
Get to know the birth plan.
Know the needs and concerns of the birthing person.

Be calm

Labor is intense. Be calm, reassuring, and supportive.

Be their voice

Explain the birthing person’s wants and needs to the medical team.
Make sure the birth plan is respected. Offer guidance on decisions.

Help with comfort measures

Help with pain management techniques.
Suggest different positions, massage, and relaxation methods.

Keep them hydrated

Offer water, ice chips, or snacks if allowed.

Offer emotional support

Labor is emotionally challenging. Offer encouragement and support.
Remind them of their strength and be a listening ear.

Be flexible

Labor is unpredictable. Be ready to adapt to changes in the birth plan.

Capture the moments

Document the process if allowed. Photos or videos can be cherished memories.

Stay informed

As labor gets stronger, it will be harder for the birthing person to focus on what’s happening around them.
Keep the birthing person informed if they want to be. But respect their desires if they need to focus on laboring.
Protect the birth space.

Postpartum support

Help with postpartum needs like skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding support, and recovery.

Being a birth partner is a chance to support your loved one through a big life event. Remember, your job continues after birth. You might need support too; it's okay not to have all the answers. Your love and care cannot be replaced, but a doula can offer support for you and your loved one during labor and birth.

Things that can change how long it takes

Being healthy: If you're healthy and exercise, it can help labor go faster.

Baby position: A baby in the head down position with their chin tucked into their chest is usually easiest for mom and baby.

Mental preparedness: Being calm and prepared can help a lot. Taking a childbirth class is a good idea.

Support: Feeling safe where you’re giving birth and having skilled people around to help you can make it easier.

Relaxing: Doing things to relax, like breathing through contractions, can make it better.

Natural or induced labor: Sometimes your doctor or midwife needs to get labor started for you. This can change how long it takes.

Coping skills: Everyone is different, so some people need more time than others. What helps in the beginning of labor might be different than what helps later on. Your needs might change and that’s okay.

Talk to your doctor or midwife if you’re worried about how long labor will take. They can help you learn the process of childbirth and answer your questions. It’s their job to make sure you’re okay. Remember how long it takes to have a baby is different for everyone. Try to be flexible, trust your body, and know that your care team is there to help you.

4. Birthing ball

Birthing person sits on a birthing ball and gently rocks side-to-side or moves in circles with their hips.

Helps the birthing person to relax. Uses gravity to reduce pressure on spine and pelvis.

Can help labor progress.

Comfort measures can help with pain during labor. But everyone is different. What works for you may not work for others. Talk to your doctor or midwife about trying comfort measures to manage pain in labor. Your birth partner or a doula can help you use comfort measures during labor and birth.

Birth partner’s guide to childbirth

Different times for different people

Things that can change how long it takes

1. Counter-pressure

2. Side-lying position

3. Double hip squeeze

4. Birthing ball