In the delivery room, it is up to the mother to do all the pushing. However, dad can play a major role in the birthing process too. Labor can be overwhelming for first-time mothers. If your partner is able to have a normal, vaginal delivery, you can ask the doctor about being present in the delivery room during birthing process. As a dad, your support and encouragement can go a long way in comforting the mother. Here are some ways in which dads-to-be can help out in the delivery room:

1. Provide Distractions

Labor has the tendency to be long and tedious. You may be spending hours doing nothing but waiting for your baby to arrive. You can take your wife’s mind off her discomfort by keeping her distracted. Music, conversations or even card games are a great way to keep her mind occupied.

2. Speak out on her Behalf

To do this, it is important you discuss her birth plan in advance. Understand how she feels about episiotomies or what her expectations of the doctor are. Don’t wait until your partner begins having her contractions to find out what kind of assistance she needs from you. Knowing her birth plan in advance makes it easier for you to articulate her needs when she is in pain, and ensure that they are met. However, be flexible once labor has started – your partner might change her mind, or the situation may call for a new plan of action.

3. Display Your Support

Labor can cause a women to panic due to stress. The best person to get her back on track with breathing techniques is her partner. As the contractions progress to become more intense, dads-to-be can help reassure her that she’s doing a great job. Help her relax by offering a neck or back rub or simply wiping the sweat off her brow. Your support can help her ease labor anxiety to a great extent.

4. Don’t take it Personally

Women in labor can often shoot off their tongue, thanks to the pain and discomfort. Try not to take it personally. If you do feel hurt, ask a nurse to watch your partner while you take a break. Also, remember to let the medical staff know if your wife’s labor is starting to affect you physically. Many men get light-headed in the delivery room. If you feel queasy, sit down or step outside for some air.

5. Capture the Moment

Starting a scrapbook might be the last thing on your partner’s mind when she’s in labor. However, you can help her out by capturing pictures of the birthing moment. Ask the doctor or the hospital if you are allowed to bring in a camera or video cam in the delivery room. Above all, ensure that your efforts aren’t disruptive to the doctor and nurses.

6. Prepare for your Baby’s Arrival

When your little bundle of joy arrives, you may be given the option of cutting the umbilical cord. If you’re too overwhelmed by emotions, let the professionals do it. Watching the birth of your baby is a miraculous experience. Give yourself a pat on your back for being a constant support in labor and delivery room.

7. Your job is just Starting

After your wife gives birth, she might be too exhausted – both physically and emotionally. While your baby is in the nursery, it might be a good time to show her how much you love her. Get her flowers, write her a love note, or anything that you think is a special way to mark the occasion.

If your partner’s doctor allows you to be present in the delivery room during birth, your support can make a world of difference. To know more about birthing process, talk to our experts at KIMS Cuddles and understand what is expected of dads-to-be in the delivery room.

*Information shared here is for general purpose. Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.