Support for Labor
Labor is an intense , life changing experience . Having a dedicated companion to support you throughout the experience is greatly beneficial . This person may be your spouse , partner , doula , friend or family member . You may also want to consider additional people who can help and what their role ( s ) will be .
Birth Partner
The birth partner often has a large role in providing support during labor , although the specific role may vary depending on your situation and personal preferences . These are a few things ( although not all ) that the support person may be responsible for :
• Helping you be as comfortable as possible .
• Staying calm at all times and providing verbal praise , support and encouragement .
• Reminding you to maintain a slow , rhythmic breathing pattern .
• Providing massage or physical touch .
• Being your advocate and communicating your preferences with the medical team .
• Ensuring that the environment is as relaxing as possible . Minimizing or eliminating any distractions or elements creating tension .
• Calling the doctor / midwife / doula / family to relay progress .
• Transportation to the birth location .
• Providing food and drink as needed and caring for other needs .
Additional Support
You may benefit from having additional support so that your partner is able to take breaks , get some sleep or eat a meal , while you always have someone you trust by your side . A family member or friend can serve in this additional support role , or you may consider hiring a doula . See the following page for more information on doulas .
Some find solitude relaxing in labor , while others prefer companionship and will be comforted by the presence of several people . Consider your preferences ahead of time as you determine who you wish to have surrounding you during your labor and birth . As you assemble your labor support team , it is important that you only include people who make you feel comfortable and safe . Do not invite anyone to your birth who creates tension for you or does not support your birth goals .
2 Finding Comfort