Dad in the delivery room: Yes or No?
Being by her side could mean the world to her!
The support a woman receives during labour and childbirth shapes her lasting perceptions of the experience.
A generation ago, in India, the idea of anyone from the family being present in the labour room was unheard of, and certainly not encouraged. However, with growing awareness and better facilities coming into play, many care facilities located in urban areas are open to the idea of partner-assisted delivery, i.e. allowing fathers in the delivery room. Some doctors even encourage fathers to cut the umbilical cord after birth. If you want to be present at your child’s birth, here’s what a father in the delivery room should expect:
Top 5 tips for dads planning to be present in the delivery room:
Firstly, if you are squeamish at the thought, perhaps being in the labour room is not for you! However, remember that childbirth is a beautiful process of bringing a child, your child, into the world, and having you by her side could mean the world to your partner who is giving birth through a lot of pain. Consider a few things before choosing whether you would like to be present during delivery.
1. If the sight of blood troubles you, don’t hesitate to express this concern to the doctor on call. Indeed, this is the stuff of many funny moments or videos of dads in the delivery room. In such cases, ask if your partner’s close family member could be with her instead.
2. Some doctors still hold traditional views about the presence of the father in the delivery room, and perhaps with good reason. Improper hygiene in the room can lead to
infections for both the mother and child
If you do decide to be in the room, comply with the house regulations and wear any and all protective gear provided to you.
3. A woman having a vaginal birth is likely in a lot of pain. Having your calm presence by her side is a show of strength and support for what she is going through. Don’t panic- the doctors know what they are doing.
4. If at any point in time, the doctors ask you to leave the room due to a complication or procedure, don’t argue with them. Step out of the room and ask a senior administrator to update you on what is going on.
5. If you or your partner have concerns about how you may perceive your intimacy after witnessing your partner give birth, discuss this with her and the doctor before choosing to be there. While it is advisable, even desirable, that the dad be present during childbirth, it shouldn’t become a problem between the two of you at a later time.
If you haven’t considered being present in the labour room before, now is as good a time as any! Think through all the consequences of this choice. It is a great source of support for your partner, and we bet you will never witness anything as beautiful as childbirth!Did you find this article helpful? If you’re a mom-to-be, will you share this with your partner? If you’re a mom, was your partner present at the birth of your child? Share your experience with us at info@togetherforher.com and be featured on our website!
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