Having a strong support team is always at the forefront for expectant mothers; even more so now in what seems to be the height of this pandemic. Birthing people all over the US have had to make a tough choice of whether to allow their partners in the birthing space or their doulas.
And while doulas fight tirelessly for their spot in these birthing spaces under normal circumstances we are given the unique challenge of keeping families together while also offering support. Some things that I have found helpful in this season are the same things partners can do post and pre Covid-19.
CREATE A PLAN
Create a game plan for dad for labor and delivery. For single dads or new dads, new dad care can look like a walk through your space to make sure your home is ready for baby. Or preparing your area for diaper changes and feedings.
It can also be difficult not to be able to go to the doctor’s appointments but to create a space to enjoy and talk about those experiences afterward helps build the bonding process.
Going over how your laboring person deals with pain and educating assisting spouses with massage techniques to ease labor can make you look like the hero. Create a plan to bond with baby and mom during labor and delivery. Even if that's from the waiting room. Make sure you are giving your partner a clear job for labor and delivery. Are they in charge of relaying information? Coordinating with family and friends? What do you see your partner doing in labor? Write it out and have a talk with your partner about how best they can support you.
VIRTUAL CARE
Having only one person in your birthing space can seem limiting and scary but with virtual support you can have the best of both worlds. If you decide to have your doula in your space they can facetime or zoom your partner while you are in labor. They can also relay information and pictures to your partner and family. On the flip side, your partner can be in the birthing space with you and you doula can zoom or facetime you and provide support virtually.
You can also attend childbirth education classes online instead of in-person to better prepare you for baby.
POSTPARTUM PLANNING
While I have always pushed having a postpartum plan it is important more now than ever. Create another game plan on your expectation for after delivery. Who is allowed to come over after baby is born? What will their jobs be? How are you going to get meals? Create a COVID safe plan now to make sure your home stays safe for the baby. It can also be helpful to increase postpartum visits from your doula for extra support coordinating these things. If you are a parent who works from home New Born Night Care can be beneficial in helping you get a break and enough rest during those first few months.
Birthing during COVID doesn't have to be scary if you are prepared and you know your options. Create a solid plan for your support team. Take advantage of virtual options as much as you can and make sure you have a postpartum plan for when baby comes home. Partners play a key role in your support system and we want them involved as much as possible.
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