Ways To Prepare As A Birth Partner
As a birth partner, you play a critical role in creating a calm, supportive environment for the mother during labour. Whether this is her first time or she’s planning a Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), your preparation is just as important as hers. A thoughtful approach can make all the difference, easing her journey and empowering you to be the partner she needs.
Here are essential ways to prepare as a birth partner:
1. Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power. Take the time to learn about the process of labour, especially the unique aspects of VBAC. Understanding the stages of labour, common challenges, and potential scenarios will help you feel more confident and provide informed support. Familiarize yourself with medical terminology, the role of a doula or midwife, and hospital or birthing centre policies. Attend prenatal classes with her, and read up on VBAC-specific information to be prepared for whatever comes your way.
2. Pack Your Bag
Just as she’s preparing her hospital or birth bag, you should pack your own essentials. Bring comfortable clothing, snacks, a water bottle, a phone charger, toiletries, and any items you’ll need for an extended stay at the hospital or birthing centre. Pack tools that help you support her—massage oils, a birthing ball, or even a speaker for calming music. By being ready, you’ll minimize stress and focus more on the moment.
3. Practise Your Route
Make sure you know exactly how to get to the birthing location. Practise the route at different times of day, so you’re not caught off guard by traffic or construction. Map out alternate routes, just in case. The last thing you want is to feel anxious or disoriented when the time comes to head to the hospital. A dry run can save you time and stress.
4. Learn Her Birth Plan
Her birth plan outlines her preferences for labour, delivery, and postpartum care. It’s vital that you understand her wishes—whether it’s preferences for pain relief, positions she wants to try during labour, or how she’d like to handle certain scenarios. Being familiar with her birth plan allows you to advocate for her when she might not be able to voice her needs. Work through the plan together so you’re both on the same page.
5. Work on Yourself (Mindset & Fears)
Supporting someone through labour can bring up emotions, fears, and uncertainties. It’s important to check in with yourself and address any anxieties you may have. Practise mindfulness or breathing techniques to help you stay calm under pressure. Talk about your feelings with the mother or a support group, and make sure you have strategies in place to manage your stress. The more grounded you are, the better you’ll be able to support her emotionally.
6. Rehearse for Labour
Labour can be intense and unpredictable, so rehearse some of the key scenarios. This could involve practising different labour positions with her, running through pain management techniques, or timing your responses to her needs. Go over how to provide counterpressure, when to offer encouragement, and when to simply hold space and be present. The more you rehearse, the more natural your support will feel when the moment arrives.
7. Know Her Bag
In addition to packing your own bag, be familiar with hers. Know where she’s packed essentials like her birth plan, ID, insurance, change of clothes, and items for postpartum. If she asks for something, you won’t be scrambling to find it. Being organized helps you stay calm and focused during what can be a chaotic time.
8. Plan for Postpartum
Don’t forget about what comes after the birth. The postpartum period can be challenging, and your support doesn’t stop once the baby arrives. Plan for how you’ll assist her in those first few weeks—whether it’s handling household tasks, ensuring she has time to rest and recover, or offering emotional support as she adjusts to life with a newborn. Help her organize meals, schedule visits from family and friends, and coordinate her care plan for the postpartum period. Your role extends beyond the delivery room.
By preparing yourself in these ways, you’ll be able to support her more effectively, ensuring that the labour and postpartum experience is as smooth as possible. When you take the time to educate, practise, and reflect, you show her that you’re there not only as a partner but as a pillar of strength during one of life’s most important moments.
