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Having a partner at the birth
birth partner · partner at delivery · husband at the birth · birth support person
Someone close to you stays with you during labor. They support you and help you breathe and change position.
When you want your husband, mother, or another close person with you. It is your choice.
⏱ Duration: usually for the whole labor; the exact rules depend on the maternity hospital
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Hospital rules. Find out ahead of time what tests and documents your partner needs.
- Preparation. It helps if your partner goes to childbirth classes.
- Partner's clothes. Clean clothes and shoes to change into, sometimes a disposable gown.
What to bring
- Your partner's documents
- Your partner's test results, if required
- Clothes and shoes for your partner to change into
- Water and a snack for your partner
How it goes
- Your partner comes with you or later, following the hospital rules
- They change into clean clothes
- During contractions, they help you breathe and massage your lower back
- They help you change position and give you water
- They follow the instructions of the doctors and midwife
- After the birth, they can stay with you and the baby
What you'll feel
- Support from someone close usually helps you get through contractions more calmly
- It can be hard for your partner to see you in pain. This is normal
Afterwards
- Your partner can help with the baby's first breastfeed
- Usually your partner leaves after the observation period in the delivery room. The hospital will tell you the rules
Contact a doctor straight away if
- If your partner feels unwell, they should tell the staff right away and step out
Common questions
Can my partner leave during the birth?
Yes, at any time. The staff will tell you when is best.
What should my partner do if the doctors are busy?
Stay out of the way, hold your hand, and do what the staff ask.