It’s June and that means it’s Father’s Day month.
If you follow me @SuziDoula you know I have been focusing on this very topic. Labor is physically demanding on mom and emotionally demanding on dad. I want to help both parties have a better experience. I put together a game plan specifically for Dad to prepare himself.
DAD’s To Do
- Keep mom hydrated – after each contraction offer her a sip of water
- Coordinate which Contraction Timer app and download it BEFORE labor!
- Do no leave mom alone – she should never feel abandoned
- Create a relaxing environment conducive to whatever mom likes
- All Physical Touch should be gentle downward motions
- Breathe WITH mom so you lead and she can follow
- Learn counter pressure techniques
- Know the Birth Plan and help mom achieve it
- Make a code word for timing of the epidural or other interventions
- Keep a Labor Log Timeline to always remember correctly
- Prior to labor, discuss who will be told what and stick to it
- Communicate your support with words of affirmation and gratitude
- Understand protocols for the baby and know what is acceptable or not to your family
- THANK MOM for all of her hard work
It is helpful for father’s to to understand that first time labors take a long time. If mom is getting induced, even longer. Being comfortable both physically and mentally, truly makes a difference. Remind dad that he needs to pack for birth too! Essentials for him will be snacks, energy drinks, power cords and comfy clothes. Hospitals tend to be cold, and being tired makes most people colder…bring sweatshirts! Whatever dad uses to lounge around at home is perfect for him to pack as you’ll be gone a couple days.
Preparing Mentally
The mental battle of watching your wife go through labor is not easy. These tips can help to educate yourself so that the fear of the unknown does not increase your anxiety. I wrote a book with an accompanying e-course to help.
If you desire doula support, please do reach out as I am connected with many. My desire is for you to have the best birth possible even when I cannot be there to support you. And, for mom’s, I hold monthly Baby Talk meetings in north CLT to talk about all things pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum. Reach out if you would like more information.
E-course link: CLICK HERE
Daddy Doula Amazon Book Link: CLICK HERE
