Fathers during Labor and Delivery

Most women want their partners present during delivery to provide emotional support and encouragement. Many fathers are scared by the prospect of being present for a birth and tend to shy away for various reasons. Fathers must realize that the hardest part of labor is done by the mother and their presence during the process can go a long way in reducing the physical and emotional strain. He is there to comfort and relax the mother. He can also play an active role in labor by timing contractions and coaching his partner through them. A well prepared father can be of great assistance in the delivery room. His job as a comforter and supporter should not be taken lightly. His familiar presence will help relax the mother and ease her inhibitions around hospital staff. Typically fathers are placed at the head of the delivery table allowing him the same view as his partner. Together they can watch their child enter the world. Many partners feel that sharing the birthing experience has brought them much closer together and made their relationship stronger. Many fathers do not feel connected to their child during pregnancy. These fathers typically do not bond with their child until they see and hold them for the first time after delivery. This is one reason why attending the birth is so important.

There are distinct steps that fathers can take at each step of the labor process to ensure that the birth is as successful as possible.

Prelude to Labor

He should be sure to alert the appropriate people at work that he may have to leave any moment to support the mother in birth. He should also ensure that the mother always knows where he is and how to reach him.

Early and First Stages of Labor

The greatest role the father can play here is to ensure that the mother is comfortable. Being supportive and cheerful between contractions is also vital. Talking, playing games, or watching television can help keep spirits high during the early stages of labor. As labor progresses he should continue to help his partner relax and help her switch positions if necessary. He should encourage her to remain inclined (laying flat can cause distress to the baby), and support her in her decisions regarding pain relief and drugs. The father should also remind the mother to empty her bladder between every one or two hours.

Late First Stage

Labor typically starts to become hard at this stage and the mother may not want to talk. Keeping her relaxed and distracted from the pain by any means is the main role of the father here. The father should continue to help with position changes, reassure the mother that she is almost done, and accept any angry or emotional outbursts or tantrums that his partner may have. No matter what happens, he should not leave her side at this point.

Second Stage

Again, the father should do all he can to ensure that the mother is as comfortable as possible, and reassure her of the great job she is doing.

Third Stage

At this stage the father should support his partner in any decision she makes regarding treatments and medications. He should also take the chance to acquaint himself with his new child and take every advantage he has to hold the baby.

Essentially the role of the father is to provide emotional support, combat fatigue, help the mother deal with pain, offer comfort and advice, speak on the mother's behest, assist with breathing, and provide a comforting and familiar presence during delivery.

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