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For a very long time, partners were kicked out of the delivery room – they were not supportive – they just didn’t bother. But here we are in 2026 and support is more important than ever. The thing is, it doesn’t come naturally (and we didn’t watch our parents navigate it well). Today I want to give 10 tips to help your partner in the delivery room.
You want to be sure to learn dating advice from someone who has seen a LOT of couples. After 20 years in the delivery room (some of you may know me as The Pregnancy Nurse®) and a thousand+ births I feel pretty confident that these tips will help you both have the best births ever!
But, if you want more than a few tips – be sure to check this out.
1. Keep Eating (Yes, Really!)
It’s common for moms to avoid food during labor, either because they’re told to or because they don’t feel like eating. Sometimes partners try to join in the solidarity and skip meals, but you need to keep up your energy and sugar to be a helpful support – not another person in need of care! Sneak out for coffee snacks, hide trail mix, or coordinate food with your partner. Just avoid strong smelling food in the delivery room – no one wants to work next to KFC!
Looking for more delivery room info — be sure to check out these posts:
2. Premature Labor itself
Preterm labor often happens at home. This is your time to shine! Many partners feel nervous or unsure, but with some basic preparation, you can really help with comfort measures and pain management. These skills don’t come naturally to most of us—which is exactly why my Prenatal Online Course for Couples was created for both of you, not just mom.
3. Be the nurse’s assistant
Once you’re in the hospital, find ways to help both your partner and the nursing staff. Offer to bring ice packs, help with repositioning, or just let the nurse know you’re there for support. This keeps you involved, gives you a purpose, and makes you far more useful than sitting restlessly in the corner.
4. Be the chauffeur and the navigator
You are in charge of the logistics: you know where to park, which entrance to use and how to find the work unit. Consider a hospital tour or a trial run so you don’t mess around when it’s time to go. When you act with confidence, mom feels more secure and less anxious.
5. Take responsibility for communication
You are the right person to inform family and friends — with mom’s consent! Have a contact list and know who needs to be informed and when. Clear communication helps mom feel informed and in control, while ensuring everyone gets the information they need.
BTW, talking about who needs to know what when (also, who is invited to the delivery room) is something you can discuss with your birth plan. Sign up for my free series on these here (to do them the RIGHT way):
6. Learn Comfort Measures
Not all laborers want a back rub or foot massage! Sometimes a gentle hand or scalp massage is just right. Being flexible and accommodating to your partner’s preferences goes a long way—and knowing a few techniques ahead of time makes all the difference. My online prenatal course for couples covers exactly what to do and when, so you’re not guessing right now.
7. Don’t take work personally
Labor gets on everyone’s nerves – especially mom’s. They may hit you or tell you not to touch, but stress and pain talk. Don’t hurt your feelings. Be patient and recognize that it’s not about you.
Looking for more affiliate tips? — be sure to check out these posts:
8. Manage your stress
Your anxiety is contagious. If you are stressed, your partner will feel it too. Knowing and being prepared helps you feel more grounded, which in turn helps your partner stay calm and confident.
9. Get Ready — Not Just Mom!
Don’t leave all the preparation to the birth. Couples who prepare together do better together. My online prenatal course for couples is designed specifically for the two of you — so you enter this hospital as a real team, not just patient and attendee.
10. Stay active — even after giving birth
Your helpfulness doesn’t have to end once the baby arrives. Stay curious and engaged: learn from the postpartum nurse, ask questions about baby care, and be proactive about participating. Don’t be the partner doing TikTok in the corner — your involvement is needed now more than ever.
Having a postpartum plan can help you manage it better!
Your actions make a difference. Being an informed, responsive and confident birth partner is truly one of the best gifts you can give. Prepare together — without fear — and you’ll both be amazed at the difference it makes. My online prenatal course for couples has everything you both need to feel ready.
