You can help your partner at home before you go to the hospital. Perhaps run her a nice bath. You ought to have a few routes to the labour ward planned out in your head, and don't forget the last minute check of the birth bag before you pack it in the car boot.
Mum-to-be might appreciate massage or other soothing touch to help with her contractions. You can practise in the last few weeks of pregnancy to see what she likes. However, don't be offended if, when it comes to the big event, she wants you to keep your hands to yourself!
There are lots of little practical things you can do for your labouring partner. Keep her hydrated with regular drinks and bring her snacks or things to read. You'd better find that hospital shop and the canteen!
Familiarise yourself with your partner's birth plan. Talk about what she wants to happen, and what she wants to try to avoid. As the labour progresses though, things might change. You can support your wife or girlfriend's wishes, and also discuss events to help her to decide when to adapt her plan.
Midwives leave at the end of their shifts; you might see three or four sets while you are in the hospital. It's reassuring for your partner to have the same person (you!) with her throughout her labour. Just being a friend and caring is maybe the best thing you can offer.
Your wife or girlfriend might find it hard to concentrate on everything that is going on. She could be in a lot of pain, or under the influence of disorienting drugs. You will have to take on the responsibility of discussing any issues with the medical team at times.
When it comes to the time to push, don't forget to tell the mum-to-be that she is doing a great job and that you're proud of her. It'll really help her to cope and carry on after all the hard work of labour which may have taken many long hours, or even days.
Many couples treasure the photographs or the film of their baby's entrance into the world. Your friends probably won't want to see them on Facebook though, keep them for your own private album.
Once your baby is delivered you may want to cut the cord yourself. The little one will probably be placed onto mum's chest first. Then you will have the chance to greet her while your partner has a rest and, if she has had an episiotomy, is stitched up.
If the new mum had a caesarian and can't hold your baby quite yet, you can have some skin to skin time with him instead and bond. Being there for someone giving birth can be scary and hard work, but it's worth it for that special moment when you hold your baby for the first time.
