What is my partner's role in a home birth environment?

In a home birth environment, the role of the partner is often questioned. As your Midwife, I'd love to take a moment to provide some insight on the partners role during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.

Pregnancy can feel isolating as there are many emotional and physical changes that occur whether it’s your first or fifth baby! As a family, preparation and education can bring you closer together to create a more relaxed environment and to make each family member feel more important. 

Your partner should also be your biggest supporter throughout your pregnancy. Through every new pregnancy, having a beacon of positivity and excitement can help ease the process exponentially. During labor & birth, your partner’s words of encouragement can make a huge impact on your experience and provide your body the ability to relax and let go.

Think of your partner as a team member in a relay race. It is up to both you and your partner to understand the signs of labor, notify your birth team and support you emotionally and physically as needed. While your birth team is there to support and empower you-there is always room for additional support.

In Katy Texas, My Radiant Beginnings midwife Melissa Bates, creates a safe environment before, during, and after birth. This process includes your partner! Along with your midwife, your partner will be with you for each step of your pregnancy.
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Your partner will be your rock, grounding you and keeping you positive and excited. During your pregnancy they can be an ear to listen, or an extra pair of hands to support you. With your partner and midwife your care before, during and after pregnancy is a team effort that is meant to empower you in your journey to becoming a new mom.