The Father

Fathers as Coaches during Labor

The role of the father is the labor and delivery room has come a very long way. Today, the father can choose to stay in the waiting, be in the labor room and then leave during delivery, stay beside his wife during the entire process of the birth of their baby, help his wife during labor and delivery by coaching her, and even aid in delivery the baby himself.

Father's today can enjoy so much more when they become involved in the entire development of their new baby. It can begin as early as the first doctor's visit to confirm the pregnancy all the way up to the birth of the baby. Many fathers enjoy going with their wife to all the appointments to listen to the heartbeat, learn how the baby has developed, find out results of test of his wife and baby, and even see the results of the ultra-sound.

There are so many childbirth classes available to help both mothers and fathers to be to teach them different childbirth methods, the options they have for the location of the birth, and even how to care for the newborn once they have taken their baby home. There are even classes for fathers all by themselves that can give them other new fathers to meet and enjoy swapping stories while they learn about all the trials and joys of becoming a new father.

The best coach is one that is prepare! Learn all you can about the labor and delivery process, know each step and what to expect. Many childbirth classes will give you this knowledge. However, you must also remember, that every pregnancy is different; your wife's labor will not be the same as your sister, your best friend's wife, or anyone else you know. Labor is a personal process that is unique for each woman.

There are similarities, such as low back pain, contractions, dilation of the cervix, and of course, the birth of the baby, however, low back pain for one woman may be intense while another woman may feel more pain in her abdomen. It would be best to ask your wife if she would like a back rub before you just begin. With some women the slightest touch can be more painful if you begin rubbing her lower back, if her back hurts too much too touch, ask her if she would like you to massage her feet. This can be very relaxing as well. Try to keep her comfortable. Play soothing music, keep a cool cloth for her face and forehead, give her ice chips if permitted, and only allow visitors she wants in the room.