Choosing a Birth Partner
In good hands
The perfect birthing partner
Giving birth can be a daunting prospect, so it helps to have someone you know and trust to support you on the day. Make sure you and your chosen birth partner both understand the important role they have to play.
Why a birthing partner is important
Writing your birth plan and reading about labour will help you understand what to expect when you give birth, but another way of preparing for the big day is by choosing a birth partner or doula. Their main role is to give you support and help you make any decisions during labour and birth, especially if things don’t go quite as expected. They can also provide a comforting source of reassurance and practical help throughout pregnancy.
During labour, your birth partner should be prepared to:
- Act as your prompter – reminding you to move around, use the breathing techniques you learned at antenatal classes or yoga – and doing whatever makes you comfortable.
- Be your communicator – making sure you are aware of any interventions that might be needed and speaking up for you if necessary.
- Be flexible – knowing that anything could happen and being supportive of any new choices you have to make
Who to choose as your birthing partner
Many women choose their baby’s father as their birthing partner, but you can choose anyone you trust – your mum, sister, a close friend, or a paid companion called a doula.
A doula offers emotional and practical support before, during and after childbirth. She can act as your birth partner or as an extra help to both of you. She can accompany you in hospital or be present at your home if you’ve chosen to have a home birth. However, her job isn’t to replace a midwife. Doulas are trained and experienced in childbirth and their primary role is to enable a woman to have the most satisfying and empowered experience possible. They provide continual care and objective advice while keeping you and your birth partner focused on your birth plan.
Next Steps
Share your birth plan with your birth partner
Ensure they understand your feelings on birthing positions and methods of pain relief
If there is any chance they may not be available on the day, have a back-up birth partner, just in case
Further Reading
Giving birth to your first baby is a once in a lifetime experience, so you’ll want to ensure you’ve considered everything.
Some women may know they need a caesarean (C-section) long before they give birth, but for others, the decision might not be made until they go into labour.
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