The birth partner plays a really important role during labour. They are a one-stop shop of support, entertainment and advocacy for the pregnant woman, and evidence shows that women who have a companion during labour are happier with their birth experience.
Whilst it is now routine for the baby's other parent to be the birth partner, personal circumstance, choice or religious or cultural beliefs might not make this the best or natural option for everyone. Many women and their partners now opt to have additional support, from a close friend, relative or professional doula (non-clinical birth support). If you choose to do this, make sure you check with your local maternity unit about how many birth partners can join you in your chosen birth unit, as this can vary from place to place.
What does the birth partner's role include?
1: Understand the birth process
It is really important that your birth partner understands what to expect from a normal birth - and any interventions that may be needed - so that they can help you make informed decisions throughout your labour.
Attending antenatal classes with you will give them the necessary tools to do this, as well as helping them understand the importance of keeping you active during labour and how to keep you comfortable when you are resting.
2: They are good company
Labour can be a lengthy process (yep, stating the obvious there...sorry!), so having someone who can help you pass the time, particularly in the early stages of labour, is a good idea. You want your oxytocin levels to be kept high - which means your birth partner's role is to keep you calm, happy and stress-free. See 6 coping strategies for early labour.
3: They are supportive
Support is the cornerstone of a birth partner’s role and comes in many forms.
Advocacy:
They are there to support your decisions during labour and be your voice if you are struggling. They should know your birth preferences and help you to follow them, but also support you should your choices and options change during your labour. See The importance of consent in maternity care.
Emotional:
Labour is a really emotional experience and your birth partner will need to understand this, knowing when to praise your efforts and offer encouragement, and to reassure you when things get tough.
Physical:
Your birth partner should be able to offer all sorts of physical support, from holding your hand to giving you a massage or attaching the TENS machine pads. As well as supporting you with active birth positions, that support your labour. But also helping you to the toilet, or supporting you in the shower or bath.
4: They know you well and will anticipate to your needs
Someone who knows you well and can read you is really helpful during labour as they will know intuitively when to be hands-on and when to give you space. They should listen to you and anticipate your needs, such as helping you with sips of water and snacks to keeping you cool and reminding you to go to the toilet!
Encourage them to learn your breathing and relaxation techniques so they can help you stay focussed and in control throughout your labour.
5: They can help establish a calm environment
Your birth partner should be doing all they can to make you calm and as comfortable as possible. This might include making a music playlist or adjusting the lighting in the room and getting out the aromatherapy oils but it also means acting in a calm manner throughout your labour - whatever it is you need to stay calm and relaxed. See Birth environment: engage all 5 senses.
6: They communicate well
Being able to communicate comfortably with your birth partner is really important as there are likely to be times during labour when you may be pretty direct, and you don’t want them to take offense or for communication to break down between you.
Also, your birth partner should feel comfortable speaking with the medical staff, whether it's asking for help or asking questions that help you make informed choices throughout your labour. The BRAIN communication tool is useful for them familiarise themselves with.