Your Birth Partner

While you’ll be preparing your birth plan, your partner will probably approach the big day with little idea of what will happen
They will tend to be more focused on your wellbeing during the birth and do little to prepare for their role
They will have some idea of what they should be doing during labour – to give you support and make sure the midwives and doctors know what you want
However, seeing the person they love in pain can be quite a shock and upsetting, making them feel helpless
Some maternity wards offer a walk-through of the hospital in late pregnancy, which can be beneficial as you and your partner can get answers to your questions in more relaxed circumstances
It may also be useful to attend antenatal classes together so you both know the potential benefits and downsides to the procedures you may have, as well as understanding the pain-relief options available
This could prove very useful during labour as they will know what your preferences are and they can help explain your wishes and prevent you feeling pressurised
Overall, to help you have a happy labour you need to prepare and talk through things together so you both know what you both want

Extra layers of clothes
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Snacks and drinks
Book or magazine
Camera/Video Camera
Coins or phonecard (some hospitals do not allow mobile phone use)
A list of names and phone numbers of the people you need to tell
Pen and paper to write down your baby’s time of birth, weight, name and any other details that people may ask you.