The more comfortable and relaxed a mother feels during labour, the better her ability to cope with pain. She can find this security with loving support from a birth assistant. The partner is the natural choice, as he will probably be closely involved throughout the pregnancy, and eager to share the experience of his child’s birth. Most hospitals now welcome fathers, friends or relatives to support the labouring mother.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR ROLE
Like many partners, you may be nervous or worry about feeling squeamish, or being inadequate at offering sufficient support. You can help combat this by preparing yourself in advance. It s important that you know as much as possible so that you can effectively help the mother meet the physical and emotional demands of labour. At the antenatal classes there will be demonstrations to describe the onset of labour and the effect of contractions, and you will be taught techniques for helping her relax. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Adapt, antenatal classes, Anxiety, Comfort, Conserve, contraction, contractions, Delivery, Discomfort, Encouragement, Fatigue, Hospitality, Intimate, LABOUR, Natural, Partner, Physical, physical encouragement, Refreshment, Stage, Support, Technique, Verbal, Voice
