When I was pregnant with our first child, I remember feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about the upcoming birth. My husband and I wanted to make sure  our birth experience was beautiful and positive, and we knew that his role as my advocate would be crucial. Through our journey, we discovered several ways he could support and advocate for me during labor. Here are eight ways your partner can advocate for you in the birth space, helping you have a amazing birthing experience.

1. Educate Yourselves

Before the big day arrives, take the time to educate yourselves about the birthing process. Attend childbirth classes together, such as those offered by Birth Boot Camp, to learn about the stages of labor, pain management techniques, and common medical interventions. Understanding what to expect will empower both of you to make informed decisions during labor. The more your partner knows, the better they can support and advocate for you.

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2. Discuss Birth Preferences and Develop a Clear Birth Plan

Communication is key to a smooth birth experience. Sit down together and discuss your birth preferences, including your wishes for pain management, interventions, and the environment you want to create in the birthing room. Develop a clear birth plan that outlines these preferences. A well-communicated birth plan ensures that your partner knows exactly what you want and can advocate for your wishes if needed.

3. Create an Environment of Peace and Trust

Creating a peaceful and trusting environment is essential for a positive birth experience. Your partner can help by setting up the room according to your preferences—whether that means dimming the lights, playing calming music, or bringing personal items that make you feel at ease. Encouragement and reassurance from your partner can help you stay relaxed and focused. Building trust with your birth team and having your partner support you in this way will foster a sense of security and calm, making the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.

4. Don’t Allow Extra People in the Room

Labor and delivery are intimate experiences, and the presence of extra people in the room can be distracting and stressful. It’s important to discuss who you want in the birth space before labor begins. Having this conversation ahead of time allows you and your partner to establish clear boundaries and ensure that only those who provide comfort and support are present. Your partner can advocate for your privacy by politely but firmly ensuring that unnecessary visitors or hospital staff give you the space and peace you need. This will help create a calm and supportive environment for you to focus on your labor.

RELATED: 7 Ways to Advocate for Your Birth Experience

5. Do the Paperwork

Hospital paperwork can be daunting, especially when you’re in labor. Your partner can take on the responsibility of handling the paperwork, ensuring that everything is filled out correctly and promptly. This includes pre-registering at the hospital, checking in when you arrive, and completing any necessary forms during your stay. Taking care of these administrative tasks allows you to concentrate on your labor without unnecessary distractions.

6. Work with and Communicate with the Birth Team

Your partner should build a positive relationship with your birth team, including doctors, nurses, midwives, and your doula. Open communication and mutual respect are essential for effective advocacy. Encourage your partner to introduce themselves to the staff, share your birth plan, and ask for their support in following it. A cooperative approach will help ensure that your preferences are respected and that you receive the best possible care. A doula, who is trained to support both you and your partner during labor, can be an invaluable member of the birth team, providing additional emotional support, comfort measures, and advocacy.

RELATED: Building Your Birth Team

7. Ask Questions

During labor, there may be times when medical staff suggest interventions or procedures. Your partner can play a crucial role by asking questions to ensure that both of you fully understand the situation. Encourage your partner to ask about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of any proposed interventions. This will help you make informed decisions and feel more in control of your birthing experience.

8. Speak Up!

In the heat of the moment, it can be challenging to voice your needs and preferences. Your partner should be prepared to speak up on your behalf if necessary. Whether it’s reminding the staff of your birth plan, requesting more time to consider an intervention, or simply asking for some quiet, your partner’s advocacy can make a significant difference. Their role is to ensure that your voice is heard and that your birthing experience aligns with your wishes.

Having a partner who is prepared to advocate for you during labor can make a tremendous impact on your birth experience. By educating yourselves, discussing your preferences, and taking an active role in the birth process, your partner can help create a beautiful and supportive environment for the arrival of your baby. Together, you can navigate the birth space with confidence and ensure that your needs and wishes are respected every step of the way. With your partner’s support and advocacy, you can look forward to an amazing birth experience.

Take control of your birth experience with our Birth Plan Blueprint. Your essential guide to creating a birth plan that reflects your unique journey and vision for childbirth.