How to Include your Husband in Childbirth

We have come a long way from those times when the father-to-be would pace up and down in the waiting room, then hand out cigars at the announcement that it's a healthy baby girl or boy. Today's dads and husbands want to be part of the labor and delivery process. It is important to him as it is to you. Here are a few tips on how to include your husband in childbirth.

Instructions

1. Attend birthing classes and work on a birthing plan together. This way, you both have an idea about the layout of the hospital, what music, if any, you want playing. It's good for him to know this in advance so he can become your voice when you are in too much pain to talk for yourself during delivery.

2. When the big day does arrive, let him be the one to drive you to the hospital. That way he can offer you some much needed emotional support and review your birthing plan.

3. At the hospital, he becomes your go-to person, feeding you ice chips and even clowning with the nurses. Basically his job during the delivery is to keep your mind at ease and to supply you with whatever you need both emotionally and physically. This will help him feel useful and needed.

4. Understand that he can also be a point of contact for family and friends. Asking him to phone loved ones with little update on what's happening. Again, it will keep his mind occupied and off the fact that he can't really take away your pain.

5. When the big moment to push does come, make sure he is there by your side, holding your hand, even if you are squeezing it a little too hard and yelling at him. It's a moment that will mean a lot to both of you, and his job is to coach you through it.

6. If he is brave enough have him cut the umbilical cord.

7. After all is said and done and you were exhausted and need to rest, let him be the one to take care of the baby. It is his time to be daddy while you recover.