Tips for partners during childbirth

Your role as a partner during childbirth

Being a partner in childbirth is not about knowing everything - it's about being there for real. Your presence, calm and reassurance make a big difference.

Key principles

• Your presence means a lot, just being there makes a difference.
• You don't need to have all the answers - the important thing is to be responsive and present.
• Your reassurance helps the birthing person feel at ease.

Talk together about expectations

Before giving birth, it is good to talk about what you want.

• Does your partner want to focus inward while you deal with the staff?
• Or does she want to be involved in all communications herself?

Clarity reduces stress and helps you both feel in control.

Communication and preparation

Effective communication creates security.

• Agree on how you want to talk to each other during the birth.
• Be prepared to communicate your partner's wishes to staff.
• Clear communication allows the care team to provide the right support.

Be present and empathetic

When labor begins - be in the moment.

• Put your phone away and observe what happens.
• Help your partner to eat and drink a little between contractions.
• See what she needs - sometimes just quiet presence, sometimes physical help.

Practical support

Small gestures make a big difference.

• Have snacks and drinks ready that you both like.
• Help with energy between contractions.
• A hand, a cold towel or a light back massage can be worth its weight in gold.

When it feels difficult for you as a partner

It can be tough to stand next to someone you love who is in pain. Worry and helplessness are common feelings.

• Allow yourself to feel - but stay focused on providing security.
• Breathe calmly and hold your partner's hand.
• Remind yourself that pain is part of the body's work.

When the baby comes

If the baby needs help breathing right after birth, this is often routine.

• Please accompany your pediatrician or pediatric nurse.
• Your presence gives security to the birthing person.
• This may look dramatic, but is often quite normal.

If a suction bell is used

Suction bell is used when the birthing mother needs some help at the end of labor.

• The suction bell assists - the baby is still born naturally.
• More people coming into the room means that the team is working together.
• Focus on your partner and rely on the competence of the staff.

Prepare yourself mentally

Knowledge provides security.

• Read books or listen to podcasts about childbirth.
• Talk to friends who have been partners in a birth.
• The more you know, the safer you will be in the moment.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions from partners before childbirth

1. How can I best provide support during labor?
Listen to your partner and ask what she needs - sometimes silence, sometimes words of encouragement.

2. Is it normal to feel powerless?
Yes, it is common. Your presence and calm are the most important thing.

3. What do I do if I get scared or stressed myself?
Breathe calmly, talk to the staff and focus on your partner's needs.

4. Should I be there all the time or take breaks?
Be present as much as possible, but take short breaks if you need to recharge your batteries.

5. What happens if the birth does not go as planned?
The staff will guide you and do what is needed to make both mother and child feel good.

6. What does it mean if many people enter the room?
These are usually routines, e.g. suction bell - more people means the team is working together.

7. How can I prepare myself mentally?
Read, listen and talk to others who have experience. Knowledge gives confidence.