Home birth...my role? - Page 3

[mama_in_PA]

This is Vadalis' DP. We had an amazing home birth on March 8. Thank you to everyone for such awesome advice. He really stepped up and pulled off so much more than he or I thought possible. He was perfect and supportive in every way - even with our three kids there! Here's our birth story and a pic of our munchkin is in my siggy.

[daddytap]

You'll be fine

My wife and I had our son at home and I must say I wouldn't do it any differently. I do have a few pointers for you

1. Communicate beforehand, communicate beforehand, communicate beforehand. Your job is to do exactly what she wants.

2. Be prepared for anything. Have the phone numbers for ANYONE you may need to contact. The last thing you want to be doing is asking her a number or how to find it.

3. As the due date approaches, make sure you have a working knowledge of where all the supplies are.

4. What I didn't do, but will this time, is make a few meals beforehand that can be frozen and reheated when needed. This helps in case of a long inactive period and after everyone leaves.

5. Be prepared to stay awake. I made this mistake. Trust me, it will come back to get you. I had just worked a twelve hour shift and then stayed up all night during her labor. After my son was born and things settled down, I fell asleep on the couch. DONT DO THAT!!! Keep yourself moving and make sure everything that needs to be done is done. Offer her the chance to sleep first. I promise she's more exhausted than you are.

That being said, congrats on choosing a home birth. I'm sure you will be extremely satisfied with your decision.

[anitaj71]

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[Kayda's Mom]

Do as you are told...roll with the punches...rub whatever she demands you rub...get what she needs you to get. Offer water/something to drink and if she says "no"...let it go. Most women will say what they want.
Make sure you have all your birth supplies gathered. Have food in the fridge for yourselves and the mw. After all is said and done be prepared to be your wife's slave and get whatever she needs while she rests and breastfeeds.
DH was awesome and stayed out of my face. He rubbed my back and did whatever needed to be done. The week after the birth he ran all the errands and did most of the cooking and cleaning. For that I am eternally thankful and my love for him grew even more.