Our Grow+Gather classes are welcome, inclusive spaces. We recognise that all families are different with different worries, different concerns and different set ups. Our antenatal classes and workshops don’t take a cookie cutter approach - we are all about supporting options and choice. For some this means coming to our classes solo, for whatever reason that might be, or for others that means bringing a friend, sister or partner along. In this blog post, I want to share a little about the role of birth partners; what this means, why it is important to think about and how birth partners can be helpful on the day itself.
What is a birth partner?
A birth partner - whether that is a partner, family member, friend or doula - can play an invaluable role in supporting you, not only during labour and birth but also in the days and weeks afterwards as you settle into life with a newborn. Birth partners are commonly spouses or partners but that isn’t the case for everyone. Some women may not have a partner for whatever reason and others might choose a different support person on the day of their birth. Having a birth partner who knows you well and can anticipate your needs can be incredibly comforting. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of having a supportive birth partner, what they can do to help you during the birthing process, and how they can make a difference in your postnatal recovery too.
An Emotional Anchor
Labour can be quite an intense ride. Having a birth partner who knows you well and can anticipate your needs can be incredibly comforting. Their presence alone can ease anxiety, helping you feel safer and more confident. Studies have shown that women who feel supported during labour are more likely to have positive birth experiences and recover more quickly afterward.
A Physical Support in the Birthing Process
Birth is physically demanding, but a well-prepared birth partner can help alleviate some of the strain. They can assist with practical needs - helping you move into more comfortable positions, making sure you are drinking, providing small, high energy snacks or massaging tense muscles. Your partner can also help you experiment with different labor positions that can ease discomfort and encourage labor to progress.
Advocacy and Communication
Your birth partner can help communicate your birth preferences to those looking after you and they can gain information or ask questions if circumstances change. Having a partner who knows your birth preferences can give you a greater sense of control and allows you to switch off and let your body do what it needs to.
Practical and Emotional Support in the Postnatal Period
Once the baby arrives, the role of the birth partner shifts, but their support is just as essential. In the postnatal period, when sleep is elusive and your body is healing, the practical and emotional support of your partner can make all the difference. In addition to practical help, birth partners play a key role in creating a supportive, understanding environment for the emotional ups and downs that are common in the early days with a newborn. Having someone who understands your needs and offers gentle encouragement can help ease the transition into motherhood.
Remember: You are a Team!
Becoming new parents is a huge life transition and it takes time to settle into your roles and to discover what works best for your new family. Don’t compare yourself to others and what they are doing - you know your baby best. Having someone alongside you during your birth and in the early stages of parenthood (whether this is a partner, family member or friend) can make all the difference. A birth partner who is prepared, present and flexible is such a special thing and provides you with the confidence to meet the needs of your body and your baby during labour, birth and well into parenthood.
In our next blog post we will be uncovering some top tips for birth partners. If you have any questions about the role of the birth partner then we would love to hear from you! If you and your partner would love more information about labour and birth then why not join us for one of our 5 star rated antenatal classes!
@growandgatheredinburgh
Commentaires