In It Together: The Benefits of Partner-Assisted Birth Prep

The weeks leading to the upcoming birth of your baby are a profound journey, filled with excitement and anticipation. As we gear up for our Birth Prep Workshop this month, we want to touch on the benefits of preparing for this important milestone with a designated birth support partner. This person is often your significant other, but it can also be a family member or friend. Or, you can have multiple support people, as many couples opt to also have a doula present to provide additional guidance.

It's been well established that women who have continuous support during childbirth are more likely to have positive outcomes, including reduced labor times and decreased medical intervention. Your support person’s role in your labor and delivery is an important one, and their involvement can provide a powerful bonding experience for both of you.

Although there is a wealth of resources available to expectant couples, in-person birth prep classes are extremely useful in giving your birth partner the tools and confidence to provide you with the necessary support during the labor and delivery process. Topics often include logistical information from how to time contractions in early labor to what to pack for the hospital. But beyond the basics, there are so many invaluable ways your partner can provide emotional and physical support to create a more positive birthing experience.

If you are currently expecting, we hope that you will join us for our upcoming birth prep workshop. You will learn where the pelvic floor muscles are located and what they do during pregnancy and birth. You will also learn ideal body positions for different stages of labor and how to properly push to avoid tearing.

Communication & Expectation

Partner-supported birth prep typically involves writing a birth plan, in which couples can discuss worries or concerns, acceptable medical interventions, labor techniques, comfort measures, and post-birth preferences. Working together to communicate your goals and anticipate challenges can help prepare you and your partner for any bumps along the way.

Emotional Support & Encouragement

Partners who have been actively involved in birth prep are better equipped to provide emotional support during labor. Whether it's providing massage, counter-pressure, or offering reassurance to alleviate fears and anxiety, your partner plays a vital role in helping you cope with the intensity of childbirth.

Labor Positions and Hands-on Techniques

One of the main benefits of birth prep is learning effective partner-supported labor positions to lessen pain and discomfort, as well as advance labor to the next stage. Your partner can also learn hands-on techniques such as tissue stretching to lessen or prevent tearing.

Advocacy

Once you are in active labor, it may become difficult for you to advocate for yourself. It’s crucial that your trusted support partner can communicate your choices and preferences and make informed medical decisions on your behalf.

Postpartum Support

Birth prep extends beyond birth to equip your partner on how to best support you into the postpartum period, including recovery, newborn care, and the transition into your new role as a mom.