There are many partner tips to give. Here are some important ones

Don’t underestimate yourself and your thoughts and fears; take yourself seriously and remember that the midwife is also there for you and your questions and concerns. It’s common for partners to have questions about what happens during labor and how you can best support based on your circumstances. For many, this is a situation that feels both frightening and uncertain, while there are expectations from those around you regarding your own role in the context. By preparing yourself, you can take greater responsibility for your role. You may need to read up beforehand but also ask your partner about what might be expected of you as a support person and the sequence of events to come. How will the mother react to pain? What is she most afraid of? Do you need to switch midwives? You can handle that. Is there something she needs that others in the room can’t pick up on? You’ve got this. The more you know, the easier it will be for both of you.

And don’t forget that you also need hydration and energy to keep up, so pack some snacks, food, and drinks for yourself as well.

Here are a few final tips:

• You will change too when you’re expecting a child, and that doesn’t make you any less important. On the contrary.
• Talk to others about how you’re feeling now that you’re about to become a parent.
• Don’t worry if you gain a few pounds during the pregnancy; in most cases, they’ll go away a month or two after the baby is born.
• Expect to take a few steps back and tolerate a bit more than usual, all while ensuring that the mother is as comfortable as possible.
• If her mood changes, this is likely a result of hormonal shifts – hang in there, it will get better…