Dads,
The most important thing you can do for your partner while she’s in labor is to be with her, emotionally she'll need to know that you are there for her, a hundred percent and that you have confidence in her. Your main job during this time is to provide your partner with support and encouragement.
The best way to do that is to know what to expect, so before it's go-time, make sure you have discussed the birth plan with her, learn and understand the different stages of labor, know how to time contractions, and when to head to the hospital. Once you are there, you are her advocate, she is going to be looking to you for comfort, and strength during the entire labor and delivery process. And though you may find it hard to watch her in pain, you'll likely discover that childbirth can be one of life's most powerful and rewarding moments.
It may be hard to figure out what to say to someone in labor, especially in the heat of the moment, but remember that while it's her job to push, it's yours to push the encouragement. For example, suggest position changes or encourage her to find something such as a breathing pattern, your face, or even a foot rub to focus on during the contractions rather than the pain. If she's able to move around during labor, getting her out of the bed for a short walk across the room or even just to a chair nearby can also be useful.
A woman in labor is not always in the best condition to make hard decisions or assertive requests. As her partner, make sure you're ready to step in if the situation calls for it. You may need to help her logically weigh her options about certain medical decisions.
Know your own limitations, there's a lot that goes on during labor. It's important to be aware of what you're willing to do during the process and what you want to leave to the professionals. This is the kind of major life event for which simply showing up is one of the most important things of all. When it is time, let the medical professionals do their job.
Last but not least, try not to take anything personally. A woman in labor may be in her own world. Giving birth is a long, hard job, and some women find the best way to cope is to reach deep inside themselves and ignore you. She may also become outwardly irritable toward you at times too, but your calmness and willingness to understand the situation will make the process a lot easier.
Many times, the birth process can seem scary. It's important to manage your fears and those of your partner by asking questions when you need to, knowing when not to worry, and projecting a sense of confidence and calm reassurance for the woman in labor. Right now, you're the supportive partner/dad and you've got an exciting and very important job.
Plus, research shows that women who have support during childbirth are more likely to have positive outcomes, including shorter labor times and decreased medical intervention.
For more in-depth information on the whole labor process and how to support a woman, who could be your wife, sister, or friend in labor visit https://www.babycenter.com