We at Female First spoke with Midwife Pip an experienced practicing NHS Midwifery Sister, MSc, author of Midwife Pip’s Guide to a Positive Birth as she shared with us ten experts tips for supporting your partner during labour.
Ten experts tips for supporting your partner during labour.
Labour is not a spectator sport. For partners, it can feel overwhelming equal parts awe, fear, and helplessness. But support during labour is not about having all the answers. It is about being present in the moments that matter most. The good news is that the most effective support is often simple, human, and time tested.
Here are ten top tips that consistently make a difference.
1. Be present really present.
Put the phone down. Eye contact, a calm voice, and physical closeness communicate safety better than words ever could.
2. Follow her lead.
Labour is unpredictable. What helped a few minutes ago may suddenly be wrong. Listen, adapt, and do not take it personally.
3. Advocate when she cannot.
Know her birth preferences and be ready to speak up if she is tired, overwhelmed, or focused inward. Calm advocacy builds trust with the care team.
4. Offer physical comfort.
Massage, counter pressure, holding hands, or simply being a steady presence can reduce pain perception and anxiety.
5. Keep your energy calm.
Stress is contagious but so is calm. Slow breathing, a steady tone, and reassurance help regulate the atmosphere in the room.
6. Encourage rather than coach.
Simple phrases such as you are doing so well or I am right here are often more powerful than instructions.
7. Respect the power of silence.
Sometimes the best support is quiet companionship. You do not need to fill every moment with words.
8. Look after the basics.
Offer sips of water, help with position changes, adjust pillows, or manage the environment. Small comforts add up.
9. Trust the process.
Labour is intense but purposeful. Confidence in her body and the process can help counter fear when things feel overwhelming.
10. Remember your support matters.
Research and lived experience consistently show that supported birthing partners feel more empowered and birthing parents often report more positive birth experiences as a result.
The Bigger Lesson
Supporting someone in labour is less about doing and more about being. Presence, patience, and belief in your partner’s strength are skills that do not require training just intention.
And those lessons do not end at birth. They are the same ones that sustain strong partnerships long after the delivery room lights dim.
Join midwife Pip at The Baby Show (a must attend for Mums & Dad's or soon to be parents), at Excel London from 6th to 8th March 2026. Find out more information, please visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk/excel
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