When you're in labor, you need your husband's focus and attention. It's crucial for feeling safe and supported. Believe it or not, you may not be thinking about meeting your most basic needs because you will be fully immersed in the challenge of labor. It's okay to not want him on his phone, to not want to watch him sleep during the entire labor, or to simply want someone by your side. Having someone who will never leave your side is essential.
Here's the thing though, he probably doesn't know what to do. So you have to ask him. And here's what you can ask for:
Here's what he can do for you:
Time Contractions: Monitor your contractions.
Paperwork: Manage any hospital paperwork.
Stay Awake: Labor can be long; staying awake shows he’s there for you. If he needs to nap, keep it short.
Hydrate: Make sure you’re drinking enough water
Communicating: Update family members via text or calls.
Bathroom Breaks: Help you get to the bathroom.
Physical Support: Hold you, keep your hair back, scratch your back.
Snacks: Provide food to maintain your energy.
Stick Around: Stay present and by your side.
Compliments: Whisper encouraging words and compliments in your ear to keep you going
Be Vulnerable with Him: Your Role in Labor
The hardest part for you might be asking him to be there for you and being okay with being vulnerable with him. If you are vulnerable with him, he will step up and take care of you. If something he does isn't helpful, let him know. He’s there to support you and might not always know what you need. Work together, and he'll be a strong teammate through this journey.
It's also important to secure support for labor no matter what kind of birth you're planning. The experience will be new and intense, but having someone who cares makes all the difference. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable with your husband and let him know what you need. He will answer the call and be there for you every step of the way.
And great news! The act of asking him to be there for you pays off big time. Studies now show that women who get this kind of constant support generally have safer and more satisfactory births!
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