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Birth partner checklist for the labor room

NNova editorial team · 5 min read

Calm presence, practical help, and following the birth team's instructions are often the most useful things a partner can offer. Planning ahead with a simple checklist makes support easier.

Birth partner checklist for the labor room

A partner's calm presence can bring comfort and reassurance during labor. Many providers encourage partners to take part in care, as long as it fits the hospital's plan and the wishes of the person giving birth.

Before labor

  • Ask the hospital or birth center about its rules for visitors, entry, documents, and dress.
  • Talk through preferences together: quiet, lighting, music, water, and touch.
  • Pack a bag with documents, water, a phone and charger, and a snack for yourself.

During labor

  • Offer water or ice chips if the care team says it is allowed.
  • Help with position changes, breathing, or gentle touch, such as a cool cloth or back pressure, if the person in labor wants it.
  • Keep your voice calm and track the time between contractions if that is helpful.
  • Stay out of the way when staff need room to work, and ask questions when you are unsure.
  • Speak up for the wishes of the person in labor, and help them communicate with the care team.
Ask the care team ahead of time who makes decisions if things change quickly. Get help right away by calling your provider or 911 if the person in labor has heavy bleeding, severe pain between contractions, fainting, trouble breathing, a severe headache, vision changes, or seizures.

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General information only; it does not replace advice from your doctor or midwife.