Your birth partner’s main role is to be there to support and encourage you throughout labour and birth. They can help in practical ways, for example by giving you sips of water, holding your hand, giving you a massage or helping you try out different labour positions.
Your birth partner can also make sure your midwives know what’s in your birth plan and take charge of communicating with the medical team; helping you understand what’s happening if you’re not sure what’s going on.
You can have a birth partner with you if you have a c-section. Your partner will then come into the theatre in scrubs and sit by the head of your bed during the birth.
Are there benefits to having a birth partner?
Every birth is different, so it’s impossible to know exactly what to expect in labour, especially if it’s your first baby. Having a supportive birth partner can help give you an added sense of control, comfort and competence.
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