While mummy will play the star of the show, the supporting actor will be equally important. Here's a list of ways dad can help out during labor and delivery.
Pregnancy
Lifestyle Changes
You can support your mummy-to-be by sharing in the lifestyle changes. Give up alcohol, drink more fluids, cut down on coffee and don't smoke.
Accompany Her
Visit the Doctor for prenatal-care appointment together. Don't miss the chance to get a glimpse of your baby during an ultrasound.
Be an Active Observer
Let your wife know you're enjoying seeing her belly grow and feeling the baby kick.
Attend the Prenatal Classes
Practice breathing with her so that you could help her with labour. Be ready to embrace her, hold her hands, soothe her.
Nurture Her
Make sure she is eating a good diet of healthy food. Make sure she gets plenty of rest. Make sure she is comfortable. Maybe offer her a pillow or to massage her feet. Take on more of the household duties like cooking, cleaning, mopping, dishes and laundry.
Prepare Your Home
Welcome the new family member by getting things like baby furniture, readying the house, preparing extra meals.
Make Decisions Together
About the kind of labor and delivery you want, what to name the child, whether your child should be circumcised.
Labour
Cheer Her On
Keep her focused. She shouldn't give up, and she shouldn't panic. If she starts acting restless or agitated during a contraction, make eye contact with her and encourage her to take a deep breath. Hold her hand and tell her she's doing great.
Physically support her
Hold her hand and hold her in position if she opts for an epidural. Clutch her legs and thighs during pushing.
Be at Her Beck and Call
If she wants some ice, get her some. Pronto. If she wants a back rub, roll up your sleeves and get to work.
Take it Like A Man
Don't take your wife's comments personally. Smile, nod, and know she will not appreciate a sarcastic response - no matter how witty you may deem it to be!
Snap Pictures
Capture the moment by taking out appropriate pictures.
Catch the baby
If you're up for it, ask your doctor if you can "catch" the baby, that is, support him as he emerges from the birth canal and cut the umbilical cord.
Post Labour
Call friends and family
You will be communication central for telling friends and family that you're a new dad!
Take initiative
Change diapers, help with feedings and baths. Allow your wife to nap while you take care of the baby.
Time off
Do whatever you can to take some time off from work when the baby arrives. This will help you establish your own close relationship with your child right from the start.
What dads should NOT to do during labor
* Don't chat on the phone with friends
* Don't return work calls
* Don't check stocks, surf the net or check emails
* Don't chew gum or blow bubbles
* Don't hoard the remote!
* Don't flirt with the nurses
* Don't let your mother in unless your wife says it's okay
* Don't socialise with other fathers
* Don't take inappropriate pictures
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