Read as much as you can. Try: The Birth Partner Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth
2) WATCH
Birth Videos. TV Birth Shows – pay attention to how they may be overly medicalized.
3) LEARN
Attend Prenatal or Childbirth Preparation Classes. Talk to Birth Advocates, Midwives, Doulas and progressive Doctors.
4) THINK
Spend some time pondering your own philosophy and beliefs about childbirth and labor.
Think about the birth that you would want to have.
Think about the person you are supporting.
5) LISTEN
Talk to the pregnant woman about her wishes for the birth.
Ask her: What is absolutely important to her at the birth? What is no big deal to her?
Ask her: What does she see as your role at the birth and what she wants you to be responsible for?
6) SUPPORT
Remember:
This is her birth, not yours.
She will remember your support forever.
Small kindnesses make a big difference to a laboring woman.
Nothing replaces the gift of an experienced Doula. That said, not every woman has access to one. Try to think like a Doula and help her attain the birth she desires.
