A labor partner (coach) is a person who stays with a woman who is giving childbirth. They help keep the woman calm and assured that they can give birth. They help with the breathing techniques, making decisions when the woman giving birth can not, and they help the woman stay comfortable.

If you plan to use Lamaze type breathing, you may want to have someone learn this along with you. Sometimes this may be your husband, boyfriend, best friend, mother or anyone who is close to you. You may request that they go to the childbirth education classes with you.

Once you are in labor, your coach can help you remain calm by watching your body signals and by knowing your personality. If your face becomes tense or if they notice you getting irritating, your coach can help with communications between you and the doctor or simply let you know you need to calm down.

If you forget breathing techniques during labor, your coach can help you.

Sometimes they may be asked to cut the umbilical cord. Whoever is going to be in your delivery room, you need to discuss whether or not they want to cut the umbilical cord. Or, whether you want them to or not. You will also need to discuss whether you want your partner to watch the actual childbirth or whether they would like to or not.

The simple act of someone important to you being in the room during childbirth can ease your fears and make you feel you are not alone.