Information for partners (preparing for birth)
Before labour and birth
It is important to discuss with your partner your role as birth partner and how you feel about being present at the birth. You can write a birth plan together and support her if it needs to change for any reason. You can also:- make sure you can always be contacted in the final weeks
- arrange how you’ll go to the maternity unit, if you are planning on having the baby there
- ensure the car always has fuel and ensure you have tested fitting the car seat. You can keep the car seat in the car
- do a trial run to test your route to the maternity unit, and ensure you have small change for parking meters
- help pack the maternity unit bag and make sure you pack the things you need
- think about preparing/freezing some meals for after the birth so you don’t have to worry about cooking when first at home
- learn about what to expect so you can be as prepared as possible to care for your partner and baby read the sections on:
Preparing for after the birth
The birth can often feel like such a huge event that not much time or attention is given to fatherhood and parenting. Having a baby changes relationships, carries responsibility and has significant financial impact, whilst also being a time of intense joy and pride. Up to 10% of new dads can suffer from postnatal depression, so if you start to feel changes in your mood, talk to your family, friends and GP (and see here).Portal: Information for partners
