Dads Can Do It! How Can an Expectant Father Help During Childbirth?

Have you decided to have a partner-assisted birth? Congratulations!

Childbirth is a significant and exciting event in the lives of both parents. The expectant father should not only be a witness to the birth of his child but also an active helper to the mother. Today we’ll talk about how a father can help during childbirth. So, a father can:

– Time the contractions. It can be very difficult for the mother to concentrate at times, so ask the dad to time the intervals between contractions.

– Give a massage. A very simple massage around the tailbone relieves pain and helps get through contractions.

– Breathe with you! Even if you’ve prepared well and practiced your breathing technique for all 9 months, trust me, you’ll forget it at the worst possible moment! That’s why it makes sense to fill Dad in on these details ahead of time and let him guide you on how to breathe. Better yet—let him breathe with you! Not only will you stay on track, but you’ll also be able to concentrate better.

– Support you during contractions. Choose a comfortable birthing position. If you’ve decided to give birth on a special birthing stool rather than lying on your back, your partner’s help is indispensable. After all, he’ll not only hold and support you (you’ll be leaning your back against him) but also whisper words of encouragement in your ear!

– Talk to you, cheer you up, and even make you laugh! Of course, only if you’re ready and able to handle it. Under no circumstances should communication with your partner in the delivery room cause you irritation. As soon as you feel that, send your loved one out to get some water.

Expectant dads, do everything in your power to make the pain less noticeable and time pass a little faster.

Read here about when to start preparing for childbirth.