Birth partners or Birthing companions have a very special role to play, and this birth and journey to parenthood will leave you positively changed forever!
You are about to experience one of life’s most profound experiences! The support you give to your partner can make a huge difference in the way your family begins.
Here are six tips to help you on your way to being a great birthing companion!
Tip 1 – Prepare
There are so many things to learn about how to support your birthing partner. Education is key. Commit to attending a HypnoBirthing course with your partner so that you will be well prepared for what is ahead. You will learn techniques for relaxation, breathing, advocacy, comfort measures and so much more.
Tip 2 – Get your mind right
A positive mental attitude is necessary. Thoughts are things! Her body “hears” your thoughts. If you are feeling fear, uncertainty, negativity or doubt you must turn it around. Step outside the room, take a few calming breaths, wash your face and say a few affirmations.
Tip 3 – Check your face
She will be looking at your face to reflect back to her how she is doing. If you are wearing what we call the “hospice” face, she will think that something is going very wrong. Relax, smile, and look lovingly into her eyes.
Tip 4 – Tell her
More than any other time in her life, she needs to hear how much you love her, how proud you are of her, what a great job she is doing. Don’t hold back, tell her! She needs to hear from you. Go the extra mile. When birthing women feel safe, loved and and supported they are more likely to relax and birth more efficiently and comfortably.
Tip 5 – Create a sacred space
Create an environment free of stress and negativity. Consider lower lights, soft voices, aromatherapy, music , gentle touch, & movement.
Tip 6 – Be Present
Do this together. One of the nicest things you can do is to turn off the electronics. Provide soothing touch, reassurance and encouragement. Hold her. Love her. No one can do this as well as you!
The 5 session HypnoBirthing program will have you feeling confident in your supporting role at the birth,
HypnoBirthing partners learn:
- How to be intimately involved in the labour and birth of your baby and how you can help your partner stay focused and grounded. Your physical and emotional support is crucial as the hospital midwife will have other women to support and have paperwork, blood pressure, baby monitoring and other tasks to get through.
- Techniques to support mum during labor, and guide her through labor with your voice and your touch. You will be able to help with breathing techniques for the different stages of labor, offer massage and help with different labor and birth positions.
- How to avoid unnecessary routine procedures and what to ask if medical intervention is needed so you stay fully in control of the decision-making process surrounding the birth of your baby. You will be the advocate, spokesperson and guide to lead the birth in a direction that is safe, and not intervened with unnecessarily.
- That through participating in the classes, and practice at home, you will enhance your connection and bond deeply with your baby and partner
Find an Educator to book into a class near you! Click here
