• Ways to be supportive during labor
• Bringing baby home: what Dads can do

Ways to be Supportive during Labor
Labor has different stages and each stage requires different types of support.  Throughout labor be responsive and aware of her needs, moods and changes.

• Ask if she'd like you to hold her or massage her back.
• Make  sure her bags are packed
• Suggest a bath or shower.
• Time her contractions.
• Contact the doctor/midwife.
• Sit close to her or let her lean on you.
• Use a calm soothing voice to help her relax.
• Make her comfortable - whether sitting, lying on her side, resting on her hands or knees, or squatting.  Encourage her to move around whenever possible.
• Create a peaceful environment.  Shut the curtains or dim the lights.  Play soft relaxing music.
• Encourage her to breathe and moan.
• Help keep others out of the room.
• Keep her spirits up.  When she says it is hard, remind her of the progress she has made.
• Ask if she wants you to hold a mirror to watch the birth.

Witness the birth of your baby with awe.

Partners for a Healthy Baby:  Home Visiting Curriculum for Expectant Families
©1999 Florida State University Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy

Bringing Baby Home: What Dads Can Do

• Straighten the house before Mom comes home.
• Fluff the pillows on her bed.
• Bring her something to drink while she is nursing.
• Run to the store for things she and the baby need.
• Get dinner ready.
• Soothe baby when she cries  by holding or walking her or patting her back.
• Massage her back.  Oh yes...
• Answer the phone.  Turn the ringer down or off while she is sleeping.
• Control the number of visitors when mom and baby first come home.  Tell those who ask how they can help, "We'd love a dinner for tommorow night." Or, "How about doing our laundry?"

Partners for a Healthy Baby:  Home Visiting Curriculum for Expectant Families
©1999 Florida State University Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy