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Guide for Labor Coach
The birth of a baby is a miraculous event. One that mom and labor coach will never forget.
As the labor coach, you can play a valuable part during this important occasion.
Plan Ahead
- Practice relaxation techniques. This can be very calming after a long day.
- Encourage her to get plenty of rest or sleep the last few weeks before her due date.
- Do things together in the last few weeks that are relaxing but not too tiring.
Be Prepared
- Have her suitcase packed, except for a few last minute items.
- Have the phone number of the doctor, clinic or hospital close at hand.
- Plan travel arrangements. Have a back-up plan to get her to the hospital in case you cannot take her there yourself.
When Labor Begins
- If labor begins at night, stay calm and encourage her to relax. A back-rub or a warm beverage may be soothing. Start timing contractions.
- If labor begins during the day, continue with light activities. Start timing the contractions.
Timing Contractions
- Time the frequency of the contraction. The frequency is the number of minutes from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next contraction.
- Time each contraction. How many seconds does it last?
- Usually, first time moms should come to the hospital when the contractions are 6-8 minutes apart.
When You Get to the Hospital
- During the admission process the nurses will help make mom more comfortable.
- Try to stay with her during labor. She will need your encouragement and companionship.
- Try to have outside details taken care of before you come to the hospital so you won't be distracted as birth approaches.
- Help her with her breathing and relaxation techniques. Continue to time contractions. During her contractions, count with her, or tell her when the contraction intensity is decreasing.
- Reassure her often. Talk softly, but in a firm and caring way. Try to keep the atmosphere quiet and relaxed. Bring in music if you think it will be helpful.
- Mom may become warm or have a dry mouth during labor. Sucking on ice chips or using a wet, cool washcloth may be helpful. Bring Chapstick or Vaseline for dry lips.
- Massage may be helpful. Use a firm, slow touch. Use counter pressure to the lower back if mom is feeling back pain. Help her change positions.
- Mom's emotions change during labor. She may be talkative in early labor and become more serious and sensitive as labor progresses.
- Remind mom to use a focal point. This will help her concentrate.
- Take care of yourself too. Take short breaks. Remember to eat.
- Help her state her needs to her labor nurse or doctor if she needs medicines.
- After getting pain medicines, some women doze between contractions. Let her rest. She may seem confused as contractions become stronger. Talk to her in a calm, direct manner.
- If she gets the urge to push, call the nurse so she can check labor progress. Keep eye-to-eye contact with mom and help her use pant-blow breathing. Her labor nurse or doctor will tell her when she can start to push.
- During the delivery, watch and help as needed. Pushing can be a lot of work. She may need you to help support her back.
- If you feel dizzy or weak, let your labor nurse know. You may need to sit down or walk out in the hallway for a minute or two.
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Labor Delivery
See how experienced labor and delivery nurses at Essentia Health help you manage labor pain during childbirth so you can stay as comfortable as possible.